The Ophthalmic Technician handles multiple functions in a busy ophthalmological practice and requires multi-tasking. Working with faculty, Clinic Manager and Clinic Supervisor, the technician’s primary role is to provide technician/clinical support to physicians.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

CLINICAL:

• Records patient history including chief complaint, information on ocular history, past surgeries, medical conditions, medications taken, allergies, learning assessment, and falls risk assessment.
• Checks pupil response to light by shining light into eye and watching speed with which pupils constrict; checks for afferent pupillary defect.
• Measures central visual field using Amsler Grid.
• Instills eye drops under physicians’ direction.
• Measures and records distance and near visual acuity.
• Measures and records intraocular pressure using applanation tonometry (i.e. Goldman tonometer), pneumatic tonometry, or Schiotz-type indentation tonometer.
• Performs Humphrey visual field testing; refers patients for further testing as appropriate.
• Performs OCTs.
• Performs IOL Master measurements for review by physician in preparation for surgery.
• Performs Pentacam measurements.
• Performs accurate refractions.
• Tests color vision, depth perception (stereopsis).
• Screens for presence of ocular motility disorders.
• Uses slit lamp to examine eye surface.
• Performs special testing like Bright field Acuity Testing; Acuity Meter; and pachymetry.
• Compiles and enters data for clinical studies; may participate in other clinical research projects.
• Teaches patients how to insert and remove contact lenses correctly, and proper handling techniques.
• Performs ultrasound scans by measuring the axial length of the eye using various A-Scan ultrasound units. Recognizes difficult scans and adjusts unit as needed in patients with high myopia, high hyperopia, poor fixation, nystagmus, retinal detachments, corneal problems, and intraocular lenses already in place.
• Performs accurate keratometry readings adjusting keratometer reading if unobtainable.
• Calculates intraocular lens power using various formulas to fit patient’s needs and situations, either manually or by computer.
• Takes fundus photos as needed.
• Responsible for exam room supply maintenance.
• Ensures medication expiration dates are current.
• Disinfects and maintains examination rooms.
• Understands and practices the fundamentals of microbial control.
• Performs basic maintenance or repair of clinical equipment.
• Maintains refrigerator logs, sharps , etc.
• Is familiar with JCAHO requirements and ensures clinic practice is in compliance with regulations.

NONCLINICAL:

• Responds and resolves In-Basket messages from patients; routes messages to physicians as needed.
• Assists with patient requests for refills.
• Provides support in obtaining insurance authorizations for treatments, procedures and medications.
• Provides support to front desk staff by triaging scheduled appointments, responding to clinical questions and explaining technician related concerns.
• Assists with tracking and processing of forms request (ie MVA, disability, FLMA).
• Maintains medical knowledge of ocular anatomy and physiology, systemic diseases, ocular diseases and ocular emergencies.
• Maintains required (COA) ophthalmic technician certification.
• Other duties as assigned.

• High School Diploma or graduation equivalent
• One year experience as an Ophthalmic Technician. Must obtain Certified Ophthalmic Asst (COA) from JCAHPO within 18 months of start date. CPR certification also required.

Classified Title: Ophthalmic Technician 
Job Posting Title (Working Title): CO Ophthalmic Technician   
Role/Level/Range: ACRO40/E/02/CE  
Starting Salary Range: $15.70 - $26.25 HRLY ($23.22-$34.02 targeted; Commensurate with experience) 
Employee group: Full Time 
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00 am - 5:30 pm 
Exempt Status: Non-Exempt 
Location: School of Medicine Campus 
Department name: ​​​​​​​SOM Oph Uveitis  
Personnel area: School of Medicine