VCU Health·Richmond, Virginia
Perform preliminary ophthalmic examinations, diagnostic testing, and patient history intake to prepare patients for the attending physician. Assist with minor surgical procedures and maintain clinical equipment and sterile environments.
Under the general supervision of the Chief Lead Technician; the ophthalmic technician performs a range of duties which includes preparing the patient to see the Attending Physician (preliminary exam, medical history, & testing), preparation of examination and treatment rooms, performing basic and routine vision screening examinations, administering eye medications, cleaning and maintaining ophthalmic instruments and assisting physicians during minor surgical and laser procedures.
Provides primary ophthalmic care to patients and acts as clinical assistant to the physician. Verifies patient information by interviewing patient, recording medical history, and confirming purpose of visit Performs complete ophthalmic history and preliminary exams, sub-specialty tests (refraction, VF test, A-Scan Biometry (Lenstar, IOL Master, Immersion), Pachymetry, PAM evaluation, BAT, color testing, contact lens evaluation.
Accurately records all information in EMR (EPIC) system according to established standards and physician requirements and those required by VCUHS with 95 % accuracy. Checks condition of patients' eyes by performing slit lamp examination and documenting abnormalities, confrontation visual field, pupil evaluation, motility screening, visual acuity, refraction, and tonometry with applanation. Prepares patients for ophthalmology examination by dilating pupils, changes in visual acuity, elevated extraocular pressure and communicating results to Attending Physician. Secures patient information and maintains patient confidence by completing and safeguarding medical records, completing diagnostic ordering, and keeping patient information confidential.
Counsels patients by transmitting physician's orders, use of drops, contact lenses, drugs, and answering questions about surgery and specialty imagining required/ordered. Keeps equipment operating by following operating instructions, troubleshooting breakdowns, maintaining supplies, performing preventive maintenance, and promptly reporting equipment issues. Handling patient phone calls, messages, messages from MyChart, and prescription refill requests. Performs set a standard number of patient work-ups based on established times while maintaining the quality of customer service.
Opening and closing examination rooms ensuring that equipment is cleaned and stocked properly. Maintains stock in the exam room in accordance with the standard inventory of the department. Maintains treatment room stock and prepares instruments for sterilization or High-Level Disinfection (HLD) Sets up and prep for minor OR procedures to include setting sterile tray and maintaining the sterile field.
Maintains a safe, secure, and healthy work environment by establishing and following policies and procedures of the department and complying with legal regulations, JCAHPO, and VCUHS Follows attendance and dress code policies
Performance Expectation: Must be able to work at alternative VCUHS Ophthalmology locations as needed
Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for Hire: N/A
Successfully completion of the American Academy of Ophthalmology Ophthalmic Medial Assisting Course within 12 months.
Obtain Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) by the Joint Commission of Allied Health Personnel (JCAHPO) within twenty-four (24) months of hire date.
Minimum of one (1) year of work experience in optometric/ophthalmology performing initial examinations and diagnostic testing
Minimum of two (2) years of work experience in ophthalmology performing initial examinations and diagnostic testing.
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA). Previous experience in an academic health care environment.
Education/training REQUIRED: High School Diploma or equivalent
Successful completion of Ophthalmic Assistant Program, Certified Medical Assistant, Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) by the Joint Commission of Allied Health Personnel (JCAHPO), Certified Medical Assistant (CMA).
Independently performs perform complete ophthalmic history and preliminary exams, sub-specialty testing, maintains equipment and coordinates patient flow.
Other duties as assigned Must be willing to work at all office locations.
Age Specific groups served: All
Physical - Lifting 20-50 lbs.
Market context
Physician roles in Virginia are typically in steady demand across hospitals, clinics, and specialty practices, especially where patient access and continuity of care are priorities. These positions are competitive because employers often weigh clinical credentials, licensure, and experience alongside schedules and benefits such as medical, dental, vision, PTO, and pension plans. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm the exact licensure and training expectations in the original posting before applying.
