Ophthalmic Scribe / Plano

Job Description

Job Description

Job Purpose

This position will be located in the Plano Office and will provide support for physicians.  Can also be required to travel to other locations to provide support for physicians. The position will report directly to the Clinical Operations Manager and will help the Ophthalmologist as a scribe and with patient work up, testing, examination, education, and treatment of patients.

Texas Retina Associates is Texas’ largest, most experienced ophthalmology practice focused specifically on the diagnosis, medical and surgical management of diseases of the retina and vitreous.  Our fellowshipped and specialty trained physicians care for the most complicated retina conditions such as ocular cancer and uveitis.  This physician owned medical group provides services at 15 locations throughout the DFW metroplex, Waco, Wichita Falls and Lubbock.

Essential Duties

Alert physician when medical record is incomplete or medical documentation contains mistakes or inconsistencies.

Collect, organize and catalog data for physician quality reporting system and other quality initiatives to increase patient compliance and improve outcomes.

Document medical visits and procedures accurately and thoroughly as they are being performed by the physician.

Experience or willingness to learn and assist with HVF, Lensometry, Tonometry, Visual Fields, Slit Lamp Microscopy, Sterilizer, Projector and basic patient work ups.

Prepare exam rooms and assist during physician exam.

Perform clerical tasks as needed by the physician including faxing, phone calls, referral letters etc.

Practices within ethical and legal guidelines.

Must be able to travel and ensures travel equipment is maintained.

Maintains patient confidentiality and a safe environment for staff and patients.

Ensures technicians have the training and expertise to ensure that patients are screened and appropriate tests are performed.

Ensures technicians have a clear understanding of the business office flow and that patient paperwork (forms, insurance, letters, etc.) is complete.

Return patient phone calls in a timely manner.

Refer situations beyond ability to proper person.

Greet patients in a cordial, friendly and prompt manner.

Escort patients to examining rooms, verify patient information and makes necessary documentation to patient charts.  Take detailed medical histories, and determine the reason for the visit.

Obtain all appropriate consent forms.

Conduct ocular tests to measure functions of the patient’s pupils, muscle, visual acuity, and extraocular movements.

Present patient history summary and alert Ophthalmologist to changes in visual acuity, elevated extraocular pressure or blood pressure, etc.

Administer topical ophthalmic or oral medications.

Annotate patient charts with exam and treatment results.

Counsel patients in the office and on the phone concerning physician's orders, use of drops, drugs, and answers questions.

Approves drug refills under physician's instructions.

Maintain knowledge of operation and maintenance of clinical equipment, drugs, and supplies.

Contribute to maintaining a clean and sterile environment.

Adhere to all OSHA and Infectious Waste Procedures.

Perform ad-hoc tasks in support of the clinical department as needed.

Perform tasks in support of the Clinical Research Department as needed.

Maintain compliance with all practice procedures and protocols.

Maintain HIPAA compliance for all patient information.

Notify appropriate staff in a timely manner regarding adequate supplies.

Cleaning and Care of Ophthalmic Instruments.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skill and /or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Minimum Education and Experience

High school diploma (or GED).

Two years of experience as an Ophthalmic Technician required. 

COA or COT certification and retinal practice experience preferred.

Training in medical terminology required.

Experience with NextGen and Patient Management preferred.

Skills and Specifications

Excellent interpersonal skills to deal effectively with patients, patients’ family members, physicians, clinicians and administrators.

Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.  Exercises sound judgement in decision making.

Must be able to recognize and appropriately respond to urgent / emergency situations per protocol.

Perform triage per specific office protocol procedures.

Ability to work independently and as a team member in a dynamic, fast paced environment.

Meticulous attention to detail.

Strong ability to listen, answer all questions as simply as possible and act when needed.

Ability to read, write and communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.

Excellent computer skills

Complete all other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

Sedentary with prolonged sitting and working at computer.

Prolonged periods of standing, walking and bending.

Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. maximum and occasionally lifting and/or carrying such articles as reports, files and small items.

Have the hand eye coordination and manual dexterity required to perform all duties.