What does an Optical Assistant do?
Published 4 min read
An Optical Assistant helps customers select the right eyeglasses and contact lenses. They also help to fit and adjust glasses, and teach patients how to care for their lenses.
Optical Assistant job duties include:
- Greet customers and patients.
- Schedule appointments.
- Verify insurance benefits.
- Obtain patient medical histories.
- Perform vision testing.
- Assist the optometrist or ophthalmologist during examinations.
- Help patients select frames and lenses.
- Adjust and repair glasses.
- Educate patients on proper contact lens care.
Optical Assistant Job Requirements
An Optical Assistant is responsible for providing customer service and support in an optical office or retail setting. They must be able to perform basic administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments and maintaining records. They should also be familiar with optical products and services, and be able to answer questions from customers. A high school diploma is typically required for this position, and some employers may require certification from the American Board of Opticianry. Previous experience in customer service or a related field is helpful, but not always required.
Optical Assistant Skills
- Answering telephones
- Scheduling appointments
- Greeting patients
- Updating patient records
- Insurance billing
- Collecting payments
- Ordering supplies
- Inventory control
- Cleaning and sterilizing instruments and equipment
- Assisting the optometrist during exams
- Fitting and adjusting eyeglasses and contact lenses
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How to become an Optical Assistant
An optical assistant is a professional who helps patients select and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, among other duties. If you have an interest in the eye and vision care industry, becoming an optical assistant may be a good career choice for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are interested in becoming an optical assistant:
1. Complete an accredited opticianry program. In order to become an optical assistant, you must first complete an accredited opticianry program. These programs typically take two years to complete and include coursework in optics, anatomy and physiology of the eye, and fitting and dispensing of eyewear.
2. Pass the national exam. After completing an accredited opticianry program, you must then pass the national exam administered by the American Board of Opticianry (ABO). This exam tests your knowledge of optics, eyewear dispensing, and contact lens fitting.
3. Obtain a state license. In addition to passing the national exam, you must also obtain a state license in order to practice as an optical assistant. Each state has different requirements for licensure, so be sure to check with your state’s licensing board for more information.
4. Get experience. Once you have completed your education and obtained your license, it’s time to start gaining some experience in the field. Many optical assistants start out working in retail settings such as optical stores or department stores before moving on to other opportunities such as working in ophthalmology offices or hospitals.
5. Stay up-to-date on industry trends and developments. The field of vision care is constantly changing, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on new developments in the industry. One way to do this is to join professional organizations such as the American Optometric Association or the National Contact Lens Examiners. These organizations offer members access to educational resources, networking opportunities, and job postings
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