Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

This position performs preliminary examinations and evaluations of patients with ocular complaints, diseases, or disorders by initiating and executing technical tests utilized exclusively in ophthalmology. The incumbent provides information to and consults with ophthalmologists who facilitate the diagnosis and eventual treatment of patients. This position may be required to access and administer medications within their scope of practice and according to State Law.

Qualifications

Required

• Current RQI Healthcare Provider eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system. The eCredential is to be obtained within 30 days of hire.

• JCAHPO certification as an Ophthalmic Assistant (COA).

• One year of experience working in an allied health profession position in ophthalmology.

This position is patient-sensitive and must fulfill all associated requirements. We protect our patients, coworkers and community by requiring all patient-sensitive employees to be immunized according to CDC standards and hospital policy. Limited exemptions may be made for documented medical contraindications or religious beliefs that object to vaccinations.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

• Performs successfully all of the essential functions of job code 7130, Ophthalmic Medical Specialist.
• Performs intermediate diagnostic tests such as intermediate manifest refractometry (fogging, balancing, near point refractometry, and trial framing), pachymetry, tear break up time test, intermediate lens skills including measuring base curve, vertex distance, and prism in glasses including progressive lenses.
• Performs intermediate automated visual fields for surgical assessment, including taped and untaped fields.
• Assists with other ophthalmic procedures including obtaining the consent of the patient and assisting with laser procedures, intraocular injections, and other minor office procedures.
• Makes decisions regarding which screening procedures and specialized tests should be applied to each patient based on symptoms as reported by the patient.
• Interprets the reliability and validity of test results and seeks additional guidance to ascertain the next appropriate treatment procedure.
• May perform IOL Master Scans and Contact A-scan.
• May assist in ophthalmic imaging, as needed, including anterior segment photography, external photography, fundus photography, HRT, GDX and OCT.
• May assist in patient flow, including scribing.
• May be responsible for floating between several different locations.

Problem Solving

• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job outlined above.
• Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills.
• Ability to provide care appropriate to the population served.
• Ability to interpret the reliability and validity of test results.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the principles of life span growth and development.
• Ability to assess data regarding the patient's status and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures manual.

Comments

The staff member must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his or her assigned unit.  The individual must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of life span growth and development and the ability to assess data regarding the patient's status and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures manual.