Optometric Assistant

Visionworks•Latham, NY

13d•$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, completing preliminary diagnostic tests, and explaining the examination process. The role serves as a liaison between patients and Optometrists and participates in the initial stages of the patient journey. Training is provided, and the position requires working flexible schedules to meet business needs, including travel to other store locations. The position is performed inside a store location and involves using computers, electronic tablets, and pre-testing instruments. Associates must comply with HIPAA and company privacy and security requirements when handling protected health information and other confidential data. Additional responsibilities may be assigned as business needs change.

Requirements

One year of related experience.
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent related job experience.
Medical office or business professionalism.
Excellent customer service and patient advocacy skills, including empathy in all interactions.
Ability to initiate interaction and collaborate with patients and team members.
Clear and effective communication skills.
Ability to work under stress, interruptions, and deadlines; multitask; and solve problems.
Detail-oriented, well-organized, energetic, self-motivated, and able to work as a team player.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret insurance forms and follow procedures and instructions.
Ability to read English.
Ability to operate electronic software platforms and enter data efficiently and accurately.
Ability to use computers, electronic tablets, and pre-testing instruments effectively.
Ability to reach above shoulder continuously; frequently lift and/or move up to 20 pounds; and perform the stated job activities, including sitting, standing, handling objects, talking, and hearing.
Ability to work flexible schedules and travel between store locations.
Compliance with HIPAA and company data security requirements.

Nice To Haves

Optical or healthcare background.

Responsibilities

Register patients and collect and enter pertinent information, including medical history and ocular health data, into the electronic medical record (EMR).
Assist the onsite doctor 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 with remote technicians and doctors, assisting with additional testing, and documenting results.
After examinations, transition patients to retail associates and convey the doctor's recommendations.
Understand MVC plans and explain plan benefits to patients.
Preauthorize insurance according to standard operating procedures.
Work with retail associates to schedule appointments and manage exam books according to company guidelines, including contacting patients who miss or cancel appointments.
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 for patients and stock, notify patients when lenses are available, maintain knowledge of contact lens brands and parameters, and pull requested trial lenses.
Maintain doctor equipment and clinical supplies, keep the patient environment clean and healthy, and ensure equipment is covered nightly.
Participate in specialized training and complete required clinical certifications.
Work changing schedules to meet business demands, including traveling between stores.
Comply with HIPAA requirements and company privacy and security guidelines.