Becoming a Competitive Ophthalmic Assistant Job Applicant

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Ophthalmic Assistant

• Increasing Earning Potential

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What is an Ophthalmic Assistant?

• Unlicensed eye care provider
• Performs important patient care activities
• Works under supervision of licensed personnel
• May have a variety of responsibilities
• Documenting medical history
• Ancillary testing
• Helping with procedures
• Etc

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Educational Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• College degree generally not required
• A couple years of coursework in a local community
  college or vocational school is viewed favorably
  by employers because it demonstrates critical
  thinking skills and commitment to completing
  tasks. Formal college education may help compete
  against other applicants and may result in higher
  earnings

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Experience Requirements

• Many people find work without prior experience
• A few years of previous patient care employment
  is preferred and often helps individuals stand
  out from the crowd. Experience and positive
  references show that an individual will make a
  good employee and has the knowledge and skills
  required to provide high quality care.
• Beginners may be paid less for the first few years

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National Certification

• Typically not required by law
• Demonstrates that the assistant has met the
  minimum standards of competence in the industry
• May be expected as a condition of employment
• Voluntary completion is recommended
• Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in
  Ophthalmology (JCAHPO)
• Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) Exam

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Geographic Location

• Large organizations operating in highly populated
  regions tend to have more money to pay employees
  and are forced to compete against other
  facilities who are attempting to attract top
  talent
• Those who live and work in rural areas where
  there are not many employers may be forced to
  accept a lower level of pay
• May consider relocating to earn more

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Role Within the Organization

• New employees with few responsibilities generally
  start out at a lower level of compensation
• As one gains experience and is assigned more
  tasks, they will typically see an increase in
  earnings
• Those who accept administrative responsibilities
  tend to earn more
• Ones long-term career objectives and interests
  need to be considered

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Resources

• Certified Ophthalmic Assistant
• www.opticiantraining.org/ophthalmic-assistant-sala
  ry/