OPHTHALMOLOGY ASSISTANT - University of Maryland Medical System

General Summary

Under general supervision, the Ophthalmology assistant is responsible for the work up of patients including documentation of chief complaint; medical, ocular, family  and social histories; objectively performing various testing needed for the doctor to make assessment.  Reviews results with physician to provide explanation and clarification as necessary. 

1. Principal Responsibilities and Tasks
   
   The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification.  They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified.

1. 1. Must comply with all policies and procedures of the organization.
   2. Completes regulatory documentation requirements defined by ambulatory services to include but not limited to the following:  risk screening, medication review, allergy review/update, social history, time out, etc. Documents chief complaint.
   3. Manages and maintains patient flow.
   4. Tests patient’s far acuity, near acuity, peripheral vision, depth perception, and color perception.
   5. Measures and records patients current prescription glasses (Lensometry)
   6. Performs and records auto-refraction
   7. Applies drops to anesthetize, dilate, or medicate eyes.
   8. Gives instructions to patients concerning eye care.
   9. Assist with minor surgery procedures or laser treatments in the office.
   10. Cleans surgical instruments in preparation for sterile processing. Inspects instruments periodically for damage, requests repair or a replacement as necessary. 
   11. Open and closes exam lanes daily, insuring that equipment is wiped down in an appropriate manner, battery powered instruments are seated properly in re-charge wells, slit lamps and projectors are switched off under covers.
   12. Collaborates with biomedical engineering to facilitate maintenance of clinical examination equipment;
   13. Orders clinic supplies as needed; performs periodic inventory of instrument supply.
   14. Performs various other duties as requested. 
   15. Measures intraocular pressure of eyes (Tonopen or Icare)
   16. Performs other tests and measurements as requested by Ophthalmologist including A-scans, Biometry, fundus photography, corneal topography, OCT (Ocular Coherence Tomography) Fluorescein (ICG) angiography , visual field (automated perimetry), and pachymetry.

III.         Education and Experience

1. 1. High School diploma or equivalent (GED) required
   2. Minimum of 3 years of related experience
   3. CPR certification required.
   4. Certified Ophthalmic Technician

IV.         Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

1. 1. Basic knowledge of diseases of the eye and associated studies to assist the Ophthalmologist to diagnose and treat eye disorders and disease. 
   2. Excellent organizational skills, ability to prioritize own work and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.  Works independently with minimal supervision.
   3. Interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patients, families, and other professionals within the hospital.
   4. Ability to demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the patient population(s) served. 

V.           Patient Safety

Ensures patient safety in the performance of job functions and through participation in hospital, department or unit patient safety initiatives.

1. Takes action to correct observed risks to patient safety.
2. Reports adverse events and near misses to appropriate management authority.
3. Identifies possible risks in processes, procedures, devices and communicates the same to those in charge.

1. Must comply with all policies and procedures of the organization.
2. Completes regulatory documentation requirements defined by ambulatory services to include but not limited to the following: risk screening, medication review, allergy review/update, social history, time out, etc. Documents chief complaint.
3. Manages and maintains patient flow.
4. Tests patient’s far acuity, near acuity, peripheral vision, depth perception, and color perception.
5. Measures and records patients current prescription glasses (Lensometry)

• High School diploma or equivalent (GED) required
• Minimum of 3 years of related experience
• CPR certification required.
• Certified Ophthalmic Technician

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Compensation

• Pay Range: $26.61-$28.99
• Other Compensation (if applicable): eligible for shift differential
• Review the 2024-2025 UMMS Benefits Guide