Certified Ophthalmic Technician

Working at Yale means contributing to a better tomorrow. Whether you are a current resident of our New Haven-based community, eligible for opportunities through the New Haven Hiring Initiative, or a newcomer, interested in exploring all that Yale has to offer, your talents and contributions are welcome. Discover your opportunities at Yale!

Overview With the knowledge and understanding of eye anatomy and mastery of testing protocols, independently assist physicians of the Ophthalmology and Visual Science Department in performing patient care, diagnostic tests necessary for evaluation of patient eye problems. Independently perform diagnostic testing for multi-specialty ophthalmic practice with specialized testing including, but not limited to A-scan, keratometry, manifest refractions, topography, cellular microscopy and use of the IOL Master. Perform diagnostic clinical photography and digital imaging, including but not limited to: Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT) testing, digital fundus and high magnification nerve head imaging, digital fluorescein angiography, digital ICG angiography, digitized HRT testing, UBM, ERG, external eye and anterior segment imaging of Yale Eye Center patients and patients referred from external facilities and physicians. Perform clinical photography and digital imaging for departmental clinical trials. Independently perform preliminary screening examination for physician review including, but not limited to central and peripheral visual field tests; ocular motility tests; color vision tests; pharmacological pupil tests; tonometry, topography and other tests to determine intraocular pressure and pupil testing for size, equality and reaction prior to dilation. Perform specialized testing procedures appropriate to specialty using both automated and manual equipment. Acting independently perform the following: position patients, review patient’s chart, patient’s condition, and physician’s notes to plan and determine method of testing, set up, operate and maintain equipment to conduct tests and procedures appropriate to specialty, provide information to patients concerning specific tests and procedures, record test results, identify and report abnormalities. Required Skills and Abilities 1. Outstanding interpersonal skills. Demonstrated communication skills for patient interaction and interactions with physicians and co-workers. Strong written communications skills. Time management skills. 2. Demonstrated knowledge of medical procedures, administering diagnostic tests and specialized equipment and instruments. Demonstrated ability in diagnostic testing for multi-specialty ophthalmic practice with specialized testing including, but not limited to A-scan, keratometry, manifest refractions, topography, cellular microscopy and use of the IOL Master. 3. Ophthalmic Assistant Certification by JCAHPO or Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT). 4. Proven ability to diagnose and troubleshoot problems with clinical photographic and digital imaging equipment. Working knowledge of Microsoft Windows operating environment. Well-developed computer skills. 5. Assists in providing coordinated and compassionate care at every patient encounter. Preferred Education, Experience and Skills Five years ophthalmic experience. Working knowledge of EPIC.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Independently performs specialized testing procedures appropriate to specialty. Perform diagnostic clinical photography and digital imaging to support physician to arrive at a diagnosis and to prescribe treatment. 2. Performs preliminary screening examination for physician review. Reviews patient's chart, patient's condition, and physician's notes to plan and determine method of testing. Positions patients. 3. Sets up, operates, and maintains equipment to conduct tests and procedures appropriate to specialty. Assists patients in transfers to/from wheel chair, stretcher, exam tables, etc. 4. Provides information to patients concerning specific tests and procedures. Reads and interprets obtained images. Records test results. Identifies and reports abnormalities. 5. Coordinates processing of slides and film. Instructs and acts as a source of information on testing techniques, procedures, and equipment operation. 6. Schedules patient appointments and originates billing paperwork. Reviews and prepares financial paperwork related to clinical activities. 7. Analyzes and compiles patient information. 8. Creates visual aids for lecture presentations and publications. 9. Reports equipment problems and acts as a liaison with repair personnel. Maintains quality control checks and log service records. Orders and maintains inventory of supplies. Maintains disposal inventory per department protocol regarding date of use/disposal. 10. Performs additional functions related to clinical activities. Required Education and Experience Eight years of related experien