Certified Orthoptist-Ophthalmology

Performs a broad range of duties related to the delivery of care to adult and pediatric patients seen within the Department of Ophthalmology. Patient care includes visual acuity testing, ocular motility testing, patient medical history and instruction to patients and guardians. The Certified Orthoptist must determine testing methods most suitable for a particular patient. Data derived from these procedures are presented to the staffing Ophthalmologist/Optometrist to determine diagnosis and treatment plans for the patient and other duties as assigned.

• Essential functions
• Assists the Ophthalmologist in diagnostic, therapeutic, and corrective procedures. Generates important and preliminary information for use by the Ophthalmologist through a variety of procedures including ophthalmic evaluations and sensory tests. Performs distance vision and near vision with glasses and reading glasses or without glasses as the case presents
• Performs full orthoptic exam to include amblyopia checks, occlusion therapy (skin patch, Bangerter filter), glasses (bifocals, over-minus lenses), Fresnel press-on prisms, Hirshberg, Krimsky, cover test, prism and alternate cover test, simultaneous prism and cover test. Creates and implements a program of orthoptic exercises for convergence, divergence and anti-submission. Performs manifest refraction and/or cycloplegic refraction and rest in trial frames. Measures papillary distance at distance and near if glasses are to be prescribed.
• Performs full orthoptic exam on all strabismus cases referred to by the Orthoptic Clinic by ophthalmology residents and all referring private ophthalmologists requiring such services. Files a record of all such examinations including a summary of findings and recommendations in the patient’s medical record. Forwards a summary letter and recommendations to referring ophthalmologists.
• Instructs and assists ophthalmology residents in techniques and principles of strabismus.
• Performs color vision, amsler grid, confrontation fields on new patients and follow-up patients as indicated. Checks intraocular pressure.
• Note: The intent of this list of primary duties is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities of this job. Incumbents perform other related duties as assigned. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
• Bachelor's degree required, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Completion of accredited Orthoptic Training Program