Optometrist

Laredo Eye Institute; Laredo (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

The Optometrist role at American Academy of Ophthalmology provides comprehensive eye care, including exams, diagnosis, and management of ocular conditions within licensure. You will collaborate with ophthalmologists, clinicians, and staff to ensure high-quality patient care and accurate documentation.

Responsibilities include performing exams, prescribing lenses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests (OCT, visual fields), and coordinating referrals.

Qualifications

• OD degree from an accredited institution and active Texas license.
• Therapeutic Optometry certification when required for duties.
• Current CPR/BLS certification if required by clinic policy.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive eye examinations and vision assessments.
• Diagnose and manage ocular conditions within licensure.
• Prescribe corrective lenses and contact lenses when appropriate.
• Coordinate care with ophthalmologists and clinical staff.
• Maintain complete and accurate patient records per HIPAA.

Skills

Clinical assessment

Patient-centered care

Communication skills

Teamwork

Time management

Attention to detail

Regulatory compliance

Education

OD degree

Texas Optometry License

Therapeutic Optometry certification

Tools

EMR/EHR

OCT

Visual field testing

Fundus photography

Job description

The Optometrist is responsible for providing comprehensive eye care services, including vision examinations, diagnosis and management of ocular conditions within the scope of licensure, and identification of eye diseases requiring specialized treatment or referral.

The Optometrist works collaboratively with ophthalmologists, clinical staff, and other healthcare professionals to ensure high-quality patient care, accurate clinical documentation, patient education, and compliance with established clinical protocols and regulatory requirements.

2. Essential Duties and Responsibilities

A. Patient Care and Clinical Services

• Perform comprehensive eye examinations and vision assessments.
• Evaluate visual acuity, refractive errors, and overall ocular health.
• Diagnose and manage ocular conditions within the scope of licensure.
• Prescribe corrective lenses and contact lenses when appropriate.
• Perform and interpret diagnostic testing, including visual fields, OCT, fundus imaging, and tonometry.
• Identify signs of ocular diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration.
• Develop appropriate treatment plans and coordinate care with ophthalmologists.
• Refer patients for specialized evaluation or surgical intervention when necessary.
• Provide follow-up care and monitor patient progress.

B. Patient Education

• Educate patients regarding eye health, disease prevention, and treatment options.
• Explain examination findings and recommended treatment plans.
• Provide guidance regarding medication use, eye care, and follow-up appointments.
• Address patient questions and concerns professionally.

C. Clinical Documentation

• Maintain complete and accurate patient medical records.
• Document examination findings, diagnoses, treatment plans, and referrals.
• Ensure timely completion of clinical documentation.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA requirements.

D. Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with ophthalmologists and other clinical providers.
• Coordinate patient care with technicians and clinical support staff.
• Communicate significant clinical findings to the appropriate physician.
• Participate in clinical meetings, training, and quality improvement initiatives.

E. Compliance and Quality Assurance

• Follow established clinic policies and procedures.
• Comply with HIPAA, OSHA, infection prevention, and patient safety requirements.
• Maintain compliance with Texas Optometry Board regulations and applicable state and federal laws.
• Participate in quality assurance and clinical performance improvement activities.Maintain current professional licenses and continuing education requirements.

3. Qualifications and Requirements

• Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution.
• Current and unrestricted Texas Optometry License.
• Therapeutic Optometry certification, when required for assigned duties.
• Current CPR/BLS certification, as required by clinic policy.
• Knowledge of ocular diseases, diagnostic procedures, and treatment protocols.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary ophthalmology setting.
• Strong clinical judgment and patient-care skills.

4. Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working in an ophthalmology or optometry clinic.
• Experience managing glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and other ocular conditions.
• Familiarity with OCT, visual field testing, fundus photography, and other ophthalmic diagnostic equipment.
• Experience with electronic medical records (EMR/EHR).
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

5. Essential Skills and Competencies

• Clinical assessment and decision-making.
• Patient-centered care.
• Professional communication.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Time management and organizational skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Ethical and professional conduct.
• Regulatory and compliance awareness.

6. Performance Expectations

• The Optometrist is expected to:
• Travel to different cities for MD rotation at other clinics/franchise.
• Deliver safe, effective, and compassionate patient care.
• Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation.
• Meet established productivity and patient-care expectations.
• Maintain appropriate patient flow and coordination with clinical staff.
• Follow clinic policies and professional standards.
• Maintain positive working relationships with physicians, employees, and patients.