Optometric Assistant

Visionworks•Saratoga Springs, NY

9h•$17 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant helps provide a positive patient experience by preparing patients for onsite and remote examinations, performing preliminary diagnostic tests, and explaining the process. The role serves as a liaison between patients and Optometrists and supports the initial stages of the patient journey. Training is provided. The position includes patient registration and recordkeeping, assisting with onsite and remote exams, coordinating remote video consultations, answering clinical questions, triaging ocular emergencies, and maintaining patient flow. It also involves explaining MVC plan benefits, preauthorizing insurance, scheduling appointments, and supporting contact lens education and orders. Associates maintain clinical equipment and supplies and complete required clinical training and certifications. The role is based inside a store and requires working changing schedules to meet business demands, including travel between stores. Associates must comply with HIPAA and company privacy and security requirements. The listed compensation is $17 to $25.50 per hour; union-position compensation terms are governed by the company’s collective bargaining agreement, with a minimum rate of $17 per hour plus incentive. Incentive pay, wage upgrades, and overtime opportunities may also be available.

Requirements

One year of related experience.
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent related job experience.
Medical office or business professionalism required.
Excellent customer service and clear, effective communication skills.
Ability to coordinate and collaborate with patients and team members, show empathy, and act as a patient advocate.
Detail-oriented, well-organized, self-motivated, and able to work as part of a team.
Ability to solve problems and multitask while working under stress, interruptions, and deadlines.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret insurance forms; follow procedures and instructions; and read English.
Ability to use electronic software platforms efficiently and accurately.
Ability to use computers, electronic tablets, and pre-testing instruments effectively.
Ability to reach above shoulder continuously; frequently lift or move up to 20 pounds; and perform the stated sitting, standing, walking, handling, reaching, and communication duties.
Ability to work changing schedules and travel between store locations to meet business demands.

Nice To Haves

Optical or healthcare background preferred.

Responsibilities

Register patients and gather and submit relevant medical history and ocular health information into the EMR.
Assist onsite doctors with patient care and eye examinations; explain preliminary testing, administer tests, and accurately document results in the EMR.
Guide patients through remote eye examinations, including pre-testing and specialty testing, initiating video conferences, and assisting remote doctors and technicians with additional testing.
After an exam, transition the patient to a retail associate and communicate the doctor’s recommendations.
Understand MVC plans and explain plan benefits to patients.
Preauthorize insurance according to standard operating procedures.
Schedule appointments and manage exam books with retail associates according to company guidelines, including contacting patients who miss or cancel appointments.
Maintain patient flow to support doctor effectiveness.
Answer clinical questions in person and by telephone, triage ocular emergencies, and schedule annual eye exams.
Maintain complete and accurate patient records according to company standards.
Instruct patients in contact lens insertion, removal, cleaning, care, and handling.
Place diagnostic contact lens orders for patients and stock, notify patients when lenses are available, understand contact lens brands and parameters, and pull requested trial lenses accurately.
Maintain doctor equipment and clinical supplies, ensure equipment is covered nightly, and support a clean and healthy patient environment.
Participate in specialized training and complete required clinical certifications.
Work changing schedules and travel to other locations as business demands require.
Comply with HIPAA requirements and company data security guidelines.