Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

Palomar Health Medical Group; Poway, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

Palomar Health Medical Group is seeking a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) to support the Ophthalmology department. The COA will manage patient flow, collect medical history, and document findings under the physician’s direction.

Responsibilities include performing diagnostic tests, administering medications, assisting with minor surgeries, and maintaining sterile exam rooms. English proficiency and familiarity with MS Office are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; ophthalmic assistant certification preferred.
• 1-2 years of clinical back-office experience in ophthalmology.
• Current Ophthalmic Assistant Certification and CPR/BLS certification required.
• Follows safety, HIPAA procedures and Palomar Health Medical Group policies.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate patient flow and collect pertinent information.
• Document patient responses, chief complaint and history accurately.
• Set up and stock exam rooms; assist with testing (VA, tonometry, keratometry, etc.).
• Administer medications as directed by physician; assist with minor procedures.
• Maintain inventory and sterilize instruments per OSHA standards.
• Open/close exam lanes and ensure equipment is cleaned and powered down properly.

Skills

English proficiency

Communication

Keyboarding

Office software proficiency

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Ophthalmic Assistant Certification

CPR/BLS certification

Tools

MS Windows

Excel

Access

Word

PowerPoint

E-mail

Job description

Department: Ophthalmology Union: Shift: 8-hour Shift - Day (United States of America) Hours Per Pay Period: 80 Job Description: Pay Range: $26.44-$37.02

Job Summary

The Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) is responsible for facilitating patient flow and obtaining pertinent information. The COA will communicate, observe, report and document patient response/condition, set up/stock exam rooms, and conduct patient call backs. Initiate documentation of the patient’s chief complaint, history of present illness, refractometry, review of systems, and all pertinent ocular findings accurately and in accordance with compliance guidelines. Perform testing to include visual acuity measurement, color vision testing, lensometry, keratometry, testing pupil function, tonometry, automated perimetry, evaluation of EOMs, confrontation visual field testing, and other patient services as requested by the ophthalmologist. Administer topical ophthalmic and oral medications as the direction of the physician. Assist with minor surgery procedures and laser treatments in the office. Inventory and maintain surgical instruments in accordance with OSHA standards. Remove and apply dressings as directed. Educate patients regarding administration of medications and pre- and post-operative instructions as directed by physician. Complete requests for prescription refills as authorized by physician with full documentation in patient charts. Inventory and maintain medications and medical supplies. Open and close exam lanes daily, ensuring that equipment is cleaned and disinfected in an appropriate manner; battery-powered instruments are seated properly in recharge wells; slit lamps and projectors are switched off and are under covers. Assist with maintenance of clinical examination equipment and assist with ordering supplies. Follow all safety and HIPAA procedures. Perform other related duties as assigned or required. The above is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of essential functions for the job described, but rather a general description of some of the responsibilities necessary to carry out the duties of this position. Ability to speak and read English at a level that is sufficient to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the position. Knowledge of standard office equipment (i.e., calculator, fax, photocopier) and personal computer and computer software skills (i.e., MS Windows, Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint, internet, e‑mail). Windows computer skills including proficient use of keyboarding, use of mouse or keys for functions such as selecting items, use of drop-down menus, scroll bars, opening folders, copying and similar operations required upon employment or within the 1st two weeks of employment to perform the essential functions of the job. Performs other duties as assigned. Follows Palomar Health Medical Group rules, policies, procedures, applicable laws, and standard. Carries out the mission, vision, and quality commitment of Palomar Health Medical Group.

Job Requirements

Minimum Education: High School Diploma or GED Preferred Education: Not applicable Minimum Experience: 1-2 years clinical back‑office experience in Ophthalmology Preferred Experience: Not applicable Required License: Not applicable Preferred License: Not applicable Required Certification: Current Ophthalmic Assistant Certification and CPR/BLS certification. Preferred Certification: Not applicable We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate against applicants or employees based on race, color, gender, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status or any other characteristic protected by law. Palomar Health Medical Group invites you to be part of our healthcare team, where we offer extraordinary opportunities for both clinical and non‑clinical positions. Our multi‑specialty practice delivers affordable, patient‑focused care that combines the latest advancements in technology and medicine with a superior experience. When you join the Palomar Health family, you’ll experience a positive, supportive and innovative environment while working in one of several modern offices conveniently located throughout North County.