Ophthalmic Assistant

JOB SUMMARY

The Ophthalmic Assistant is a non-certified, multi-skilled person trained to assist in all aspects of an ophthalmic medical practice under the direct responsibility of a physician*.  The Ophthalmic Assistant assists with patient care management, administrative and clinical procedures.   

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Identifies self and department or doctor to internal and external customers.  Wears identification badge at all times.
• Greets patients with courtesy and respect.  Answers questions and direct requests appropriately and efficiently.
• Prepares examination and treatment rooms.
• Provides patient and/or family member with a brief explanation of any procedures prior to performing a procedure.
• Assists with patient eye examinations, office procedures which may include in-office surgical procedures, treatments or use of laser as directed by the physician*. 
• Performs tests using ophthalmic instruments that provide diagnostic information, as directed by the physician*. 
• Administers topical medications or diagnostic drugs as required by the physician* for testing or treatment.
• Helps patients to understand about the medications, test or procedures and comply with treatments the physician* prescribes.
• Schedules patients for surgery.  Provides patient with written preoperative and postoperative instructions, to include dates and times of appointments and surgery.  Responds to any questions the patient may have regarding surgery and/or postoperative care.  Documents information in patient’s chart.
• Prepares and maintains records and reports for test tracking to provide continuing and quality patient care.
• Coordinates schedule changes with front desk.
• Cross-trained to work in Ophthalmology’s technical department (Tech Pool), and may be cross-training to work as a Patient Services Rep.

***Physician has the option to delegate this responsibility to a mid-level provider.

• Other duties as assigned.

CORPORATE CULTURE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Follow established corporate and department-specific policies and procedures.
• Attend all corporate and department-specific required training.
• Uphold MCC’s Purpose, Values, and Vision.
•  bide by MCC’s Corporate Culture Responsibilities.
• Perform other duties as may be assigned cheerfully and willingly.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum education requirement is high school diploma or GED.
• Certification as an Ophthalmic Assistant is not required for this position.  Prior experience is desired and helpful, but on-the-job training may be sufficient.
• Must hold and maintain Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support (CPR and AED) certification.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Displays customer services skills, strong interpersonal skills, close attention to detail, and excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Be a person of integrity and character, willing to embrace change and make a positive impact in the lives of patients and co-workers.
• Ability to work with staff members at all levels of the organization in a cooperative, team-oriented manner.
• Displays computer proficiency (i.e. PC windows and MS Office environment) and ability to quickly learn new applications.
• Proficient in use of English language both in written and verbal communication.
• Must be able to communicate with individuals of varying socio-economic backgrounds.
• Displays ability of giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Professional demeanor and recognition of privacy considerations for patients and families.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Strength (Lift/Carry/Push/Pull): Sedentary (exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally)
• Standing/Walking: Occasionally; activity exists up to 1/3 of the time
• Keyboarding/Dexterity: Frequently; activity exists from ¾ of the time
• Ability to look at a computer screen for extended periods.
• Ability to perform constant repetitive hands and finger motions.
• Must be able to be mobile and work in various positions (standing, sitting, bending, and walking) for extended periods of time.
• Talking (Must be able to effectively communicate verbally): Yes
• Seeing: Yes
• Hearing: Yes

EMOTIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Must exhibit stable work behaviors daily.
• Must possess adequate individual coping skills.
• Ability to remain calm and professional regardless of workload or time constraints.  
• Must be able to work under stress and remain calm and professional.   

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Exposed to frequent and constant interruptions in daily functions/schedule. 
• Must be available to customers and staff throughout the day. 
• Required to work extended hours to meet department needs.
• Clinical/Medical practice back office operations.