Summary
The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily responsible for ensuring a great patient experience by preparing patients for onsite or remote examinations, completing pre-exam diagnostic tests, and explaining each step of the process. They act as a liaison between patients and Optometrists and participate in the initial steps of a patient journey.
Compensation
Part Time – $17.00 to $25.50 per hour.
Essential Responsibilities
- Complete patient registration, gather and submit pertinent patient information (Medical History and Ocular Health data) into EMR.
- Assist onsite doctor with patient care and eye examinations; clearly explain preliminary testing processes, administer tests, and accurately document results in EMR.
- For remote appointments, assist patients through the remote eye exam process, including: pre-testing and specialty testing in EMR; initiate remote technician and doctor video conferencing; assist remote doctor and technician to complete additional required testing.
- Transition the patient to a retail associate post-exam, conveying the doctor’s recommendations.
- Have a strong understanding of MVC plans and be able to articulate plan benefits to patients.
- Preauthorize insurance in accordance with SOPs.
- Partner with retail associates to schedule appointments and manage exam books, including contacting no-shows and cancellations.
- Maintain patient flow to ensure doctor effectiveness.
- Answer clinical questions in person and over the telephone; triage ocular emergencies and schedule annual eye exams.
- Maintain complete and accurate patient records following company standards.
- Instruct patients on insertion, removal, cleaning, care, and proper handling of contact lenses.
- Place diagnostic contact lens orders and notify patients when lenses are available for dispensing.
- Have working knowledge of contact lens brands and parameters; accurately pull lens trials when requested by the doctor.
- Ensure a clean and healthy environment by maintaining doctor equipment, clinical supplies, and covering equipment nightly.
- Participate in specialized training and complete required clinical certifications.
- Work flexible schedules, including travel to other locations as needed.
Education / Experience
• One (1) year of related experience. • Optical or health-care background preferred. • Medical office/business professionalism required. • HS diploma, GED, or equivalent related job experience. • Training provided.
Behavioral Characteristics
- Patient advocate.
- Excellent customer service skills.
- Ability to initiate immediate interaction, coordination, and collaboration with patients and team members.
- Very detail-oriented and well-organized.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with associates and patients.
- Work under stress with interruptions and deadlines.
- Energetic and self-motivated.
- Team player.
- Problem-solving ability.
- Ability to multi-task.
- Exhibit empathy in all interactions.
- Ability to read, analyze and interpret insurance forms.
- Follow procedures and instructions.
- Read English.
- Operate and enter data into electronic software platforms efficiently and accurately.
Physical Demands / Work Environment
Work changing schedules, travel between stores; use computers, tablets, and pre-testing instruments; stay above shoulder continuously; sit, stand, use hands and fingers to handle, feel, pick or pinch, and talk or hear most of the time. Must frequently lift up to 20 pounds. Noise level moderate.
HIPAA & Security Requirements
All associates must comply with HIPAA and related data security guidelines. Associates may have access to protected health information and must ensure it is protected at all times.
Equal Opportunity Employer
VSP is an equal opportunity employer, committed to the hiring, advancement, and fair treatment of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, ethnicity, disability or veteran status, or any other protected status.
Union Position Compensation
Position provides competitive pay and benefits. Minimum pay $17 per hour plus incentive. Starting pay may vary based on experience up to $25.50 per hour. Incentive pay, wage upgrades, and overtime opportunities also available.