Optometric Assistant

Optometry AssistantPay Range: $26.06 - $36.08This position supports eye care services to patients of all ages. This position requires/develops skills as an optometry assistant including optical and imaging duties through on-the-job and self-training modules. Customer service, attention to detail, clear communication and timely documentation are essential for this position. This is a career ladder position with four levels designed to provide progressively more technical and independent work experiences. Promotion between job levels is based on performance, skill acquisition, required certifications, and the demonstrated ability to successfully handle duties requiring progressively more responsibility.SEARHC is a non-profit health consortium which serves the health interests of the residents of Southeast Alaska. We see our employees as our strongest assets. It is our priority to further their development and our organization by aiding in their professional advancement.Working at SEARHC is more than a job, it's a fulfilling career. We offer generous benefits, including retirement, paid time off, paid parental leave, health insurance, dental, and vision benefits, life insurance and long and short-term disability, and more.Key Essential Functions and Accountabilities of the Job (as skills acquire)Room and screen patients for the providers, perform optical and point of care lab testing.Accurately document in a timely manner.OpticalAssist patients with optical orders: optical benefits verification, frame selection, measurements, order entry, payment collection, order verification, dispensing (glasses and contacts) in-person or by mail, adjustments, repairs, and warranty replacements.Assist with inventory management: ordering, cleaning, returns and frame placement.Assist with approval and reconciliation of invoices for timely payment.ImagingAcquires ocular imaging: photos, ocular coherence tomography, visual fields, topography.Enters images into medical record for provider review.Administrative SupportAssist with triage, tracking and scheduling of referred, recalled or diabetic patients.Assist with phones, directing/answering patient questions and paperwork.Work with Referral Care Coordinators, providers and/or clinics to facilitate patient referrals.Order and maintain office and medical supplies.Other FunctionsAlways maintain patient confidentiality.Work collaboratively to meet the needs of the patients and organizational goals.Other duties as assigned.Education, Certifications, and Licenses RequiredHigh School Diploma or GEDBLS at hire or must obtain within 3 months of hire.Certified Paraoptometric Technician (CPOT) from the American Optometric Association AND/OR Alaska Dispensing Optician License.Clinical Competency required within 3 months of hire and every three years.Knowledge ofMedical and ophthalmic terminology.Customer service principles.Safety and infection control principles.Skills inCustomer service, time management and organization.Computer use with a high degree of accuracy and detail orientation.Verbal and written communication.Ability toMulti-task and work independently in a fast-paced environment.Learn and maintain optometry assistant competencies.Problem-solve and use conflict resolution skills to develop and maintain good working relations with other staff and departments.Other QualificationsFine detail manual dexterity with precision for eyeglass repairs.Travel RequiredRequired to accompany optometrist on field trips, 3-6 weeks/year.Required Certifications:Basic Life Support (BLS) - American Heart Association, Certified Paraoptometric Technician - American Board of Opticianry, Clinical Competency Assessment - SEARHCIf you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!