The ophthalmic assistant participates in the care of patients in a clinic setting by performing ophthalmic examinations, such as visual assessments, pupillary assessments, tonometry, lensometry, contact lens, visual field examinations, slit lamp examinations, Goldmann visual fields and ophthalmic photography. The incumbent places patients in rooms, prepares patients for exams/procedures and provides patient/family support. Schedules patient appointments and handles referrals. Prepares and maintains patient medical records. The incumbent may be responsible for obtaining insurance coverage and benefits, obtaining authorizations and updating demographic/financial data.

The health technician participates in the care of patients in a physician office setting by measuring and recording vital signs, placing patients in rooms, completing simple tasks to prepare patients for exams/procedures and providing patient/family support. The health technician assists the nursing staff and health care provider during exams and when necessary. Performs clinic-specific technical skills.

Must meet requirements as an ophthalmic assistant or health technician:

Ophthalmic Assistant:

• Completion of a twelve-week formal COA training program or completion of the AAO independent study course, followed by successfully passing the JCAHPO COA certification exam (or obtained within the first year of employment).
• Annual continuing education credits must be maintained.
• Basic knowledge of computers is preferred.
• Person should display initiative and have the ability to multitask.
• Proven ability to problem solve and be a team player is essential.

Licensure/Certification/Registration:

• Certified ophthalmic assistant.
• Certified in Basic Life Support.

Health Technician:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• State of Florida CNA certification or current nursing student preferred.
• Basic Life Support (CPR) is required or must be obtained within the first month of employment.
• Person should display initiative, have the ability to multitask and be able to take on responsibilities.
• Proven ability to problem solve and be a team member is essential.
• Understanding of medical terminology preferred.
• Must complete clinic-specific training requirements and demonstrate competency of these to the UFP nurse education team.

Licensure/Certification/Registration:

• Basic Life Support (CPR) is required or must be obtained within the first month of employment.
• Must maintain current Basic Life Support (CPR).

Salary:

• Ophthalmic assistant pay grade SHN 8: minimum $18.45/hour - midpoint $22.65/hour
• Health technician pay grade SHN 4: minimum $16.00/hour - midpoint $18.15/hour

Must meet requirements as an Ophthalmic Assistant or Health Technician:

Ophthalmic Assistant

Completion of a twelve-week formal COA training program or completion of the AAO Independent Study Course, followed by successfully passing the JCAHPO COA certification exam (or obtained within the 1st year of employment). Annual continuing education credits must be maintained. Basic knowledge of computers is preferred. Person should display initiative, and have the ability to multitask. Proven ability to problem-solve and be a team player is essential.

Licensure/Certification/Registration:

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant. Certificate in Basic Life Support.

Health Technician

High school diploma or equivalent required. State of Florida CNA Certification or current nursing student preferred. Basic Life Support (CPR) is required or must be obtained within the first month of employment. Person should display initiative, have the ability to multitask and be able to take on responsibilities. Proven ability to problem-solve and be a team member is essential. Understanding of medical terminology preferred. Must complete clinic-specific training requirements and demonstrate competency of these to UFP nurse education team.

Licensure/Certification/Registration:
Basic Life Support (CPR) is required or must be obtained within the first month of employment. Must maintain current Basic Life Support (CPR).

Salary:

Ophthalmic Assistant Pay grade SHN 8: Minimum $18.45/hr - Midpoint $22.65/hr

Health Technician Pay grade SHN 4: Minimum $16.00/hr - Midpoint $18.15/hr