Certified Ophthalmic Assistant-Ophthalmology

Palomar Health; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

Palomar Health in Poway, CA is seeking a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) to support patient flow and assist the ophthalmology team. You will perform tests, document patient information, and help with minor procedures and post-operative instructions.

The COA will handle room setup, inventory, and patient education while maintaining HIPAA compliance and a clean, safe clinical environment. The position requires a High School Diploma or GED and a COA certification with CPR/BLS.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 1–2 years of clinical back-office experience in Ophthalmology preferred.
• Current Ophthalmic Assistant Certification and CPR/BLS certification required.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate patient flow and gather pertinent information.
• Document patient responses and assist with exam setup and room preparation.
• Perform ophthalmic testing and pre/post-operative patient instructions as directed by the physician.
• Assist with minor procedures, instrument sterilization, and inventory management.
• Ensure HIPAA compliance and maintain clean, organized exam lanes.

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Department:

Ophthalmology

Union:

Shift:

8-hour Shift - Day (United States of America)

Hours Per Pay Period:

80

Salary Range:

$26.44 - $37.02

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 closed 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 standards. 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.