Job Title: Nurse Practitioner - State of New Mexico
Department: Optometric Care & Surgical Services
Reports To: Medical Director
Employment Type: Full-Time (Part-Time Considered)
Location: New Mexico - various locations
We are seeking a compassionate, motivated, and highly skilled Nurse Practitioner (NP) to join our new Eyecare surgical center. In this dynamic role, you will provide comprehensive eye care services-including full ocular assessments, while also delivering integrative optometric care services designed to support patient eye health and general well-being. You will work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to deliver patient-centered care that combines modern optometric practices with surgical technology and innovative care models. This position requires an active, unrestricted license to practice as a Nurse Practitioner in the State of New Mexico.
Core Responsibilities- Perform comprehensive eye exams including visual acuity testing, refraction assessments, and anterior/posterior segment evaluations.
- Diagnose and manage common ocular conditions including dry eye syndrome, conjunctivitis, blepharitis, glaucoma (co-management), and diabetic eye disease.
- Co-manage pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing cataract surgery, LASIK, and other ophthalmic procedures.
- Order diagnostic imaging and ocular testing (e.g., OCT, visual fields, fundus photography).
- Refer patients to ophthalmologists or specialists when clinical findings exceed NP scope or require surgical intervention.
Optometric & Preventive Care Services- Conduct comprehensive optometric care assessments identifying lifestyle, nutritional, and systemic factors impacting ocular and overall health.
- Develop individualized optometric care plans addressing nutrition, supplementation (e.g., omega-3s, lutein, zeaxanthin), and lifestyle modifications for eye health optimization.
- Screen for and manage systemic conditions with ocular implications, including hypertension, diabetes, and thyroid disorders.
- Provide patient education on blue light exposure, digital eye strain, UV protection, and preventive ocular hygiene.
- Offer integrative optometric care consultations addressing sleep, stress, and nutrition as they relate to visual and general well-being.
Clinical & Administrative Duties- Maintain accurate, complete, and timely clinical documentation in the electronic health record (EHR) system.
- Participate in quality improvement initiatives, patient safety protocols, and clinic performance reviews.
- Mentor and collaborate with clinical support staff including doctor's technicians and clinical services managers.
- Stay current with evidence-based practices in optometry, integrative medicine, and nursing through continuing education.
- Adhere to all HIPAA, OSHA, and state regulatory requirements.
Qualifications & Requirements- Active, unrestricted Nurse Practitioner license issued by the New Mexico Board of Nursing.
- Current DEA registration or eligibility to obtain one in New Mexico.
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from an accredited institution.
- Minimum of 2 years of clinical NP experience; experience in primary care, ophthalmology, or integrative medicine strongly preferred.
- Strong proficiency with EHR/EMR systems and clinical documentation.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and patient education skills.
Preferred- Bilingual (English/Spanish)
- Familiarity with ophthalmic diagnostic equipment (slit lamp, tonometer, OCT, auto-refractor).
- Experience in a retail optical, ophthalmology, or optometry clinic setting.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements- Surgical center environment with potential exposure to ophthalmic equipment, lighting, and topical chemical agents.
- Ability to perform slit lamp examinations and operate diagnostic imaging equipment requiring fine motor precision.
- Prolonged periods of sitting or standing; ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
- Schedule will include some evening or weekend hours depending on clinic operations.
Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time as needed.
