What does an Optometric Assistant do?
Published 3 min read
An Optometric Assistant helps the Optometrist with patient care and administrative tasks. They may perform vision tests, help patients select frames, and take measurements for glasses. They also keep records and schedule appointments.
Optometric Assistant job duties include:
- Schedule and confirm appointments
- Greet patients and escort them to the examination room
- Prepare patients for examinations and tests
- Assist the optometrist during examinations and tests
- Measure patients’ eyesight
- Record patients’ medical histories
- Perform basic office duties such as answering phones, filing, and scheduling appointments
- Dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses
- Educate patients on how to care for their glasses and contact lenses
- Clean and maintain optical equipment
Optometric Assistant Job Requirements
An Optometric Assistant typically needs to have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and must complete on-the-job training. Some states require certification for optometric assistants. Experience is not typically required, but may be helpful.
Optometric Assistant Skills
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Optics
- Visual science
- Ocular disease
- Contact lenses
- Eye examinations
- Visual acuity testing
- Refraction
- Ophthalmic instruments
- Computer skills
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How to become an Optometric Assistant
An optometric assistant is a professional who helps an optometrist with patient care and administrative tasks. If you are interested in becoming an optometric assistant, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success.
First, it is important to have a strong interest in the field of optometry and be passionate about helping people improve their vision. You should also be detail-oriented and organized, as you will be responsible for keeping track of patients' records and scheduling appointments. Good customer service skills are also essential, as you will be interacting with patients on a daily basis.
If you have these qualities, the next step is to complete a formal education program. Many community colleges offer optometric assistant programs that can be completed in one or two years. These programs will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field.
Once you have completed your education, the next step is to find a job with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Many optometric assistants start out working part-time or on a per-diem basis before transitioning to full-time work. This allows you to gain experience and build your skills while also having a flexible schedule.
If you are dedicated to becoming an optometric assistant, there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this field. With hard work and dedication, you can build a successful career helping people improve their vision.
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