Optometric Tech / Scribe

JOB SUMMARY

An Optometric Technician I/Scribe is a multi-skilled person trained to assist in all aspects of an optometric medical practice under the direct responsibility of an Optometrist. The technician assists with patient care, administrative and clinical procedures to include scribing Optometrist dictation of visit.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Correctly summarizes and documents the Optometrist's verbal statements during an examination, including but not limited to: proper charting of the examination, documenting additions to the chief complaint, assessment, plan and recommendations for treatment.
• Appropriately identifies, in any progress note, self as the individual acting as the Optometrist's scribe.
• Observes the patient and the Optometrist and assists as appropriate during the exam.
• Identify self, department, and Optometrist when performing a diagnostic procedure on a patient.
• Assist with patient examinations, exam room preparation, procedures, or treatments as directed by the Optometrist. Assist with refractions as required by the Optometrist. Help patients understand and comply with treatments the Optometrist prescribes. 
• Perform certain tests using ophthalmic instruments that provide diagnostic information. 
• Administer topical medications or diagnostic drugs as required by the Optometrist for testing or treatment.
• Assist with office surgical procedures. 
• Coordinate schedule changes with front desk.
• Ensure all charge slips are completed and entered on a daily basis. Maintain up-to-date records of daily charges.
• Assemble patient charts for daily appointments.
• Efficiently and accurately input data into electronic medical record system.
• Function as Patient Services Representative (PSR) as necessary.
• 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.
• Abide 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.
• No certification is required for an Optometric Technician I. Prior experience is desired and helpful, but training can be on the job.

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 at all levels of the organizational hierarchy in a cooperative, team-oriented manner.
• Must be able to safely and correctly operate Auto-Refractor and Lensometer.
• Displays computer proficiency (i.e. PC windows and MS Office environment) and ability to quickly learn new applications. Preferred ability of typing 40 cwpm 
• Medical Terminology 
• Preferred knowledge of operating electronic health records (EHR) systems.
• Proficient in use of English language both in written and verbal communication, including correct usage of grammar and ability of written expression for clarity. 
• Must be able to communicate with individuals of varying socio-economic backgrounds.
• Legible handwriting and ability to accurately record information.
• 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 mobile and able to 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

• Clinical back/front office environment
• Exposed to frequent and constant interruptions in daily functions/schedule. 
• Must be available to customers and staff throughout the day. 
• May be required to work extended hours to meet department needs.