Optician

Optic Assistant Position

Under the direct supervision of the Clinic Director and the Optometrist, the Optician provides support services to the Optometrist and the patients of Colusa Indian Optometry Clinic. The incumbent will be expected to create an environment where every patient feels welcomed and is shown respect and empathy. The incumbent is expected to work in accordance with the mission, purpose, and values of the Colusa Indian Community Council.

Essential duties and responsibilities: To perform this job successfully, the incumbent must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable incumbents with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

• Interpreting results of eye examinations, using prescriptions written by Optometrists and Ophthalmologists;
• Advising patients on frame weights, materials, styles and colors;
• Recommending lenses, coatings and frames to suit customers' needs;
• Measuring customers to determine suitable types and styles of frames;
• Preparing orders for glasses and contact lenses by checking prescriptions, lens thickness and other specifications;
• Making sure that orders for glasses and contact lenses have been processed accurately;
• Performs medical interpretation/translation for patients and their families;
• Make notations in the patient's chart indicating the origin of the request for interpretation or translation, the nature of the service provided and an assessment of the patient's understanding and level of acceptance of the information;
• Perform pre-examination and ancillary tests prior to the patient seeing the Optometrist;
• Auto refraction, lensometry and tonometry;
• Visual field, fundus photography and optic vision screening; and
• Preliminary case history including current medical conditions, visual acuities, phoropter and drop instillation.
• Prepares patient for vision examinations;
• Conducts contact lens training;
• Assists patients with frame selection, fittings and adjustments.
• Incumbent is required to translate for our Optometrist during eye examinations and procedures;
• Must have strong communication skills and the ability to explain technical information clearly to patients.
• Maintain workstation and waiting area in compliance with clinical confidentiality and patient service protocols;
• Maintain personal appearance appropriate for work environment.
• Answer telephones courteously, make appointments and take messages according to protocols;
• Greet patients and visitors warmly at the front desk and provide both registration and exit support services;
• Document insurance eligibility and inform patients of the estimated services cost and their treatment plan payment requirements;
• Prepare clinical records for patients' visit with the provider;
• Process route slips and return to Billing Coordinator;
• Balance daily cash receipts and cash bag;
• Assist clerical staff in maintenance and filing of completed patient records;
• Collaborate with all coworkers in performing duties required to provide patient-focused services that meet all regulatory and licensing standards;
• Maintain high confidentiality standards at all times Incumbent required to sign a confidentiality statement upon acceptance of employment.
• Manages continuous patient flow by effectively communicating with team members and providers;
• Conducts inventory of supplies and stocks exam rooms. Verifies and maintains stock level and recommends disposal for all expired supply items;
• Disinfects and wipes down all equipment and instruments;
• May perform other duties commensurate with the functions and level of the position.

Minimum qualifications

• Education: High School graduate or equivalent
• Experience: One (1) year of experience working in an Optometry office preferred.
• Licensing/Miscellaneous:
  • Certification: Optometric Assistant Training; Certificate fitting contact lenses
  • License/Certification: Valid CPR/First Aid certificate
  • Language: Bi-lingual in Spanish is preferred

Key competencies

• Familiar with Microsoft Office.
• Knowledgeable with Medical terminology.
• Familiarity with optical products
• Familiar with and flexible in performing all office support functions.
• Demonstrate cultural competency and commitment to patients.
• Good organization and time management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail with the ability to multi-task.
• Tactful, poised, pleasant and diplomatic, exhibiting a positive, professional demeanor to peers, patients, physicians and visitors? Promotes team image and possesses a high degree of flexibility.
• Demonstrate cooperation and consideration of other health team members and peers.
• Organized, flexible and versatile with the ability to function effectively in stressful situations.
• Eager and enthusiastic in promoting the general philosophy of the facility.
• Dedicated hard worker with ability to report to work on a daily basis.

Physical requirements

• Will be required to stand, sit, stoop, bend and/or kneel for significant periods of time.
• To be able to work indoors/outdoors year round.
• The noise level is usually low to moderate.
• May be required to move or lift up to fifty (50) pounds.