Ophthalmic Technician

POSITION

Ophthalmic Technician

DEPARTMENT

CLINIC

REPORTS TO

CLINIC LEADER

JOB SUMMARY

This Individual supports the clinical team by accurately documenting and summarizing the physician's ocular examination, assisting chair-side during patient encounters, and performing diagnostic testing and basic patient work-ups. This role plays a key part in maintaining efficient patient flow, ensuring clear communication, and supporting high-quality patient care.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma required; some college preferred
• Experience maintaining patient confidentiality
• Basic understanding of algebraic principles
• Two years of experience in a medical office preferred
• Excellent spelling and written accuracy

Essential Skills & Abilities

• Professional interpersonal skills
• Strong verbal and written communication with attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Legible handwriting
• Computer literacy
• Basic medical and ophthalmic terminology

Key Responsibilities

• Accurate Clinical Documentation — Summarize and document physician findings, chief complaint updates, assessments, and treatment recommendations.
• Chair-Side Assistance — Support the physician during examinations, including positioning patients, preparing instruments, and assisting during emergencies.
• Patient Communication — Monitor patient understanding, provide verbal or written instructions, and supply educational materials as needed.
• Chart Accuracy — Correct documentation errors using approved formatting (single line through error, initials, corrected entry).
• Patient Flow Management — Maintain at least two occupied exam rooms and stay near the physician to support efficient workflow.
• Prescription Preparation — Prepare glasses, contact lens, or medication prescriptions for physician signature.
• Exam Room Readiness — Ensure rooms are stocked, clean, and set up according to physician preferences.
• Diagnostic Testing — Perform visual fields, visual acuity, pinhole testing, brightness acuity testing, Schirmer's tests, tonometry documentation, and instillation of drops per protocol.
• Minor Procedure Assistance — Obtain consent, prepare biopsy forms, coordinate specimen pickup, and manage instrument sterilization.
• Patient Follow-Up — Complete superbills, guide patients to checkout, confirm appointments, and return patient calls.
• Physician Preference Awareness — Learn and adapt to each physician's workflow and exam style.
• Surgery Center Support (TSC) — Terminal cleaning, bed preparation, stocking supplies, patient scrubbing, and assisting with post-op checks.
• Event Support — Set up, greet patients, and clean up for community or in-house seminars.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk and stand for up to eight hours
• Ability to type or write legibly in dim lighting
• Ability to hear softly spoken words