Job Description
Under general direction of Ophthalmologist, examines, diagnoses treats and manages diseases, injuries and disorders of the visual system and associated structures as well as identifies related systemic conditions affecting the eye; corrects to maximum efficiency patients' medical visual problems through use of correct lenses, both spectacle and contact, and other optical aids. Treats patients having a full range of optometric problems and prescribes correction ranging from simple single vision lenses through prisms, iseikonic and aphakic lenses; assesses patients' physical and mental abilities and performs follow-up evaluations to determine whether the patient is appropriately using their vision aid as instructed.
Responsibilities
Patient Care:
-Under general direction of ophthalmologist, examines and diagnoses an independent patient load. Interviews and examines patients having a full range of vision problems, consulting medical charts when available.
-Determines, using a full field of optometric instruments and equipment, such things as patients' visual acuity; amplitude of accommodation; refractive state at far and near point; and accommodation, convergence, and binocular coordination at far and near point. Conducts fundus (living eye) through biomicroscopy, including viewing with fixed lens and camera. Evaluates intraocular pressure through applanation tonometry and other modalities.
-Employs ophthalmometry and other instruments for high astigmatic diagnosis; employs low vision aids such as telescopic and microscopic lenses for the correction of sub-normal vision;
Optometrist determines proper remedial alternatives and discusses and interprets findings with patients and/or parents; suggests appropriate remedial method.
-Refers patients with indications of possible pathological condition to an Ophthalmologist for additional examination; discovers eye conditions caused by systemic problems, such as diabetes or hypertension and refer to other medical doctors. Consults with Ophthalmologist when appropriate. Treats eye conditions as regulated by State Law.
-Calculates proper prescription employing formulas ranging from those necessary to calculate simple single corrective lenses, through those necessary to calculate contact lenses, prisms, iseikonic and aphakic lenses.
-Good interpersonal manner and care is important during examination sessions in order to ensure accurate diagnose.
Instructing:
-Instructs Resident Ophthalmologists and paramedical personnel in the field of ophthalmic instrumentation and optometric procedures by planning and developing a course of training under the direction of the Staff Ophthalmologist by conducting lectures and demonstrations.
-Works in a dedicated room equipped with Ophthalmic Instruments.
Qualifications
-Graduate from a fully accredited college of optometry.
-Job requires a knowledge of anatomy, optics, pharmacology, biochemistry and physiology and the use of drugs, ordinarily acquired through completion of pre-optometry degree.
-Specialty training in various fields of Optometry preferred.
-Prior experience in the field of optometry required in order to gain experience in the recognition of ocular abnormalities.
-Must be licensed by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO).
-Must have basic Microsoft word skills.
-Ongoing continuing education courses are required to reflect technological advances, including surgery techniques, prescriptive medications and other medical treatments related to eye diseases and disorders.
-Analytical skills necessary for examining ophthalmology patients during examination sessions.
-Work requires manual dexterity for use and maintenance of optometry equipment. Adequate physical strength required for adjusting optometry equipment and positioning of patients.
