Optometric Assistant

Visionworks•Auburn, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant helps ensure a positive patient experience by preparing patients for onsite and/or remote examinations, completing preliminary diagnostic tests, and explaining each step of the process. The role acts as a liaison between patients and Optometrists and supports the initial stages of the patient journey. The position provides patient registration and clinical support, assists with onsite and remote examinations, records information in the electronic medical record (EMR), coordinates patient transitions to retail associates, and supports scheduling, insurance preauthorization, contact lens services, and clinic operations. Associates must complete specialized training and required clinical certifications, follow HIPAA and company privacy and security requirements, and perform additional responsibilities as business needs change. This is a full-time position with competitive pay and benefits. The stated pay range is $17 to $25.50 per hour, with incentive pay, wage upgrades, and overtime opportunities also available. Starting pay may vary based on experience. Specific compensation terms are governed by the company’s collective bargaining agreement.

Requirements

One year of related experience.
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent related job experience.
Medical office or business professionalism.
Ability to work changing schedules and travel between store locations as business demands require.
Ability to use computers, electronic tablets, and pre-testing instruments effectively.
Ability to read English, follow procedures and instructions, read and interpret insurance forms, and operate electronic software platforms efficiently and accurately.
Strong customer service and communication skills, including the ability to interact and collaborate with patients and team members.
Ability to work under stress with interruptions and deadlines, multitask, solve problems, and remain organized and detail-oriented.
Ability to demonstrate empathy, self-motivation, energy, and teamwork.
Ability to comply with HIPAA and company data security requirements.
Ability to perform the stated physical demands, including frequently lifting or moving up to 20 pounds and continuously reaching above shoulder level.

Nice To Haves

Optical or healthcare background.

Responsibilities

Register patients and gather and submit relevant patient information, including medical history and ocular health data, into the EMR.
Assist the onsite doctor with patient care and eye examinations.
Explain preliminary testing to patients, administer each preliminary test, and accurately document results in the EMR.
For remote appointments, guide patients through pre-testing and specialty testing, document results, initiate remote technician and doctor video conferencing, and assist with additional testing required for the remote exam.
After an examination, transition the patient to a retail associate and convey the doctor’s recommendations.
Understand MVC plans and explain plan benefits to patients.
Preauthorize insurance according to standard operating procedures.
Partner with retail associates to schedule appointments and manage exam books according to company guidelines, including contacting patients who do not attend or cancel.
Maintain patient flow to support doctor effectiveness.
Answer patients’ 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 proper handling.
Place diagnostic contact lens orders and stock, notify patients when lenses are available for dispensing, and maintain working knowledge of contact lens brands and parameters.
Accurately pull contact lens trials when requested by the doctor.
Maintain a clean and healthy patient environment, maintain doctor equipment and clinical supplies, and ensure equipment is covered nightly.
Participate in specialized training and complete required clinical certifications.
Work flexible schedules and travel to other locations as needed to meet changing business demands.
Comply with HIPAA requirements and company privacy and security guidelines for protected health information and other confidential information.
Complete additional essential responsibilities as assigned in response to changing business needs.