The Ophthalmology Technician plays a critical role in supporting ophthalmologists and other eye care professionals in diagnosing, treating, and caring for patients with eye-related conditions. This position requires a combination of technical skills, knowledge of ophthalmic procedures, and a patient-centred approach to healthcare
Patient Care
- Conduct preliminary tests: Perform various ophthalmic diagnostic tests and screenings, such as visual acuity testing, tonometry, visual field testing, and refraction, following established protocols and guidelines.
- Prep patients: Prepare patients for eye examinations and procedures, explaining the process, obtaining relevant medical history, and ensuring their comfort throughout the visit.
- Perform specialized tests: Conduct specialized ophthalmic tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), visual field testing, fluorescein angiography, and ultrasound imaging to assist ophthalmologists in diagnosing and monitoring eye conditions.
- Contact lens fitting: Assist with contact lens fittings, measurements, and instructions for patients requiring contact lenses as part of their vision correction treatment.
- Patient triage: Assist in triaging patients based on the urgency of their eye conditions, ensuring that patients with acute issues are seen promptly by the ophthalmologist.
- Medication management: Administer eye drops, ointments, or medications as directed by the ophthalmologist, and educate patients on proper administration techniques.
- Patient follow-up: Schedule follow-up appointments, coordinate referrals to other specialists if needed, and communicate test results and treatment plans to patients under the supervision of the ophthalmologist.
- Assist with procedures: Support ophthalmologists during eye exams, procedures, and treatments by providing assistance with instruments, equipment setup, patient positioning, and other tasks as needed
Patient Education and Support
- Assesses patient educational and needs and interacts with relevant staff and departments to facilitate requirement.
- Educate patients: Provide patients with information on eye conditions, treatment options, medications, and post-care instructions to promote patient understanding and compliance with treatment plans.
- Provide emotional support and guidance to patients and families during challenging times.
- Ensure patients understand discharge instructions and follow-up care
Collaboration and Communication
- Work collaboratively with physicians, Nurses, and other healthcare team members to coordinate patient care.
- Communicate effectively with colleagues to ensure seamless transitions of care and optimal patient outcomes
Documentation and Record Keeping
- Record and document: Record test results, patient information, treatment plans, and other relevant data accurately in electronic medical records (EMR) systems for review by ophthalmologists and other healthcare providers.
- Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements regarding patient documentation.
- Maintains patient confidentiality at all time
Safety and Infection Control
- Maintain equipment: Ensure that ophthalmic equipment is in proper working condition, clean, and calibrated regularly to produce accurate test results and maintain patient safety.
- Adhere to strict infection control protocols to prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections.
- Implement safety measures to protect patients, staff, and visitors from accidents and injuries.
- Identify and address potential safety hazards in the healthcare environment.
- Identifies and reports defective or broken equipment, safety hazards and environmental hazards.
Professional Development
- Professional development: Stay current with advancements in ophthalmology technology, procedures, and best practices through ongoing training, workshops, and professional development opportunities.
- Seek opportunities for professional growth and skill development through workshops, seminars, and certifications.
- Demonstrates and maintains competence in all mandatory competencies.
- Maintain current licensure and certifications required for the position.
Quality Improvement and Compliance
- Quality assurance: Participate in quality assurance activities, such as monitoring and maintaining the cleanliness of ophthalmic equipment, ensuring infection control measures are followed, and participating in audits and quality improvement initiatives.
- Participate in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and safety.
- Demonstrates sensitivity to patient complaints and concerns. Initiates the nursing of administrative chain of command if unable to resolve patient issues
- Assists the Head Nurse of the unit by willing acceptance of any other work-related responsibility.
Ensure compliance: Adhere to all relevant regulations, protocols, and safety standards to maintain a safe and efficient working environment.
Other duties as assigned within the scope of responsibility and requirements of the job