What does an ophthalmic assistant do?
The study of ophthalmology is the practice of medicine focused on the eye and its anatomy.
An ophthalmic assistant is a support position that assists ophthalmologists and optometrists in direct patient care settings by performing testing and assisting with procedures. Ophthalmic assistants are highly-trained, but are not independent practitioners. They perform these tasks under the supervision of a licensed ophthalmologist.
Training to be an ophthalmic assistant involves lectures, labs, and clinical training, with a focus on hands-on experiences.
Scope of practice
Some of the tests an ophthalmic assistant may perform include:
- Visual acuity measurements
- Ocular motility measurements
- Retinoscopy, refractometry, lensometry, and tonometry
- Assessment and function
- Anterior chamber depth analysis
- Color vision and visual field
- Keratometry and contact lens fitting
- Ocular examination with slit-lamp biomicroscopy
- Medical history
- Patient education
- Ocular imaging
- Medication administration, and
- Ancillary testing
Specializations
An ophthalmic assistant is an entry-level, support position with a specialization in medicine focused on the eye and its anatomy. The career may provide advancement opportunities in different subspecialties in ophthalmology.
Work environment
Ophthalmic assistants work in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospitals and clinics, and medical centers. Many ophthalmic assistants work full time, but part-time positions are often available for greater flexibility, and some positions may require work on evenings or weekends to accommodate patient needs.
Ophthalmic assistants must have a passion for patient care. Much of their work is directly with patients of all ages, from children to the elderly, and their families. They also work with ophthalmologists, orthopists, nurses, and other members of the healthcare team.
Becoming an ophthalmic assistant
A minimum of a high school diploma, GED or equivalent, is required to start on the path to be an ophthalmic assistant.
Most often, those who want to pursue this career apply to and attend an accredited academic educational training program. These programs offer classroom learning, clinical experience, and hands-on training. These programs often include clinical rotations for additional experience.
Once criteria are met, there are opportunities to sit for professional certifiication tests in the field, such as the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant test through the Joint Commission of Allied Health Professionals in Ophthalmology.
Higher education requirements
A minimum of a high school diploma, GED or equivalent, is required to start on the path to be an ophthalmic assistant.
Certification process
Once criteria are met in an education training program, there are opportunities to sit for professional certifiication tests in the field, such as the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant test through the Joint Commission of Allied Health Professionals in Ophthalmology.
Career opportunities and outlook
The outlook for opthalmic assistant roles is positive. As a newer field, it is gaining in popularity as the demand for healthcare services also grows with technological advancements and an aging population.
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