Ophthalmology Dry Eye Clinical Coordinator

Position Summary

The Dry Eye Clinical Coordinator is responsible for managing and coordinating the dry eye disease program within the ophthalmology practice. This role serves as the primary resource for patients diagnosed with dry eye disease, ensuring comprehensive patient education, treatment coordination, follow-up care, and provider support. The coordinator works closely with ophthalmologists, optometrists, technicians, and administrative staff to improve patient outcomes and enhance the dry eye service line.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Patient Care Coordination

• Serve as the primary point of contact for patients undergoing dry eye evaluation and treatment.
• Educate patients regarding dry eye disease, treatment options, medication usage, and home care regimens.
• Coordinate diagnostic testing, treatment appointments, and follow-up visits.
• Monitor treatment compliance and patient progress through regular communication.
• Respond to patient inquiries regarding dry eye therapies and treatment plans.
• Document patient interactions accurately in the electronic medical record (EMR).

Clinical Support

• Assist providers during dry eye evaluations and procedures as needed.
• Perform specialized dry eye diagnostic testing, which may include:
  • Meibography
  • Schirmer testing
  • Tear breakup time assessments
  • Ocular surface imaging
• Prepare examination rooms and diagnostic equipment.
• Ensure accurate documentation of test results and provider recommendations.
• Prepare patient education documents and videos.

Additional Clinical Support Duties

Phlebotomy and Laboratory Services

• Perform venipuncture in accordance with physician orders and established protocols.
• Collect, label, process, and prepare blood specimens for drop processing.
• Maintain specimen integrity and ensure proper handling, storage, and transport of laboratory samples.
• Document collections and results accurately in the electronic medical record (EMR).
• Adhere to OSHA, infection control, and safety guidelines related to specimen collection.
• Monitor and maintain inventory of phlebotomy supplies and laboratory materials.
• Provide patient education regarding laboratory testing and specimen collection procedures.
• Receive and verify donated placental tissue and all accompanying documentation in accordance with established procedures.
• Inspect tissue and review required documentation and laboratory test results prior to processing.
• Prepare designated processing areas, equipment, instruments, and supplies using appropriate aseptic techniques.
• Carefully separate and prepare the amniotic membrane from placental tissue following established processing procedures.
• Cut and prepare amniotic membrane into specified sizes and configurations according to processing requirements.
• Accurately label, package, and store processed tissue in accordance with established procedures.
• Maintain complete and accurate records, including tissue identification, processing dates, lot/batch numbers, and final disposition.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant processing environment and properly handle and dispose of biohazardous materials.
• Protect the confidentiality and integrity of donor and tissue-related information and comply with applicable organizational policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in required training, ongoing education, and competency assessments related to tissue processing procedures and quality standards.

Treatment Coordination

• Schedule and coordinate dry eye procedures and treatments, including:
  • Lipiflow/TearCare
  • Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy
  • Radiofrequency treatments
  • Punctal plug procedures
• Coordinate prescription therapies and specialty medications.
• Maintain treatment protocols and patient education materials.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate patient records and treatment logs.
• Manage inventory of dry eye-related supplies, medications, and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA and practice policies.
• Support quality assurance and process improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate degree or higher preferred.
• Completion of an ophthalmic assisting program preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of ophthalmology or optometry experience preferred.
• Experience with dry eye disease management highly preferred.
• Knowledge of ophthalmic diagnostic testing and procedures.

Certifications (Preferred)

• Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)
• Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT)
• Ophthalmic Scribe Certification
• Other relevant ophthalmic certifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of dry eye disease and ocular surface disorders.
• Excellent patient education and communication skills.
• Ability to build rapport with patients and encourage treatment compliance.
• Knowledge of electronic medical record systems.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Detail-oriented with excellent documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.