To become an ophthalmic technologist, one needs post-secondary education, work experience, and interpersonal skills. They work under ophthalmologists, performing vision tests, maintaining equipment, and assisting with surgeries. They can find jobs in clinics, offices, and testing centers. A training program is required, and applicants need high school credits in biology, math, English, and technology. Work experience is valuable, and interpersonal skills are important. They collect medical history, measure vision, and provide instruction on eye care. Continuing education is necessary to maintain skills and advance careers.
There are three things needed to become an ophthalmic technologist: post-secondary education, work experience, and interpersonal skills. An ophthalmic technologist works under the supervision of an ophthalmologist. He or she is responsible for performing vision tests, maintaining ophthalmic equipment, taking patient history, and assisting with eye surgeries.
Ophthalmic technologists can find job opportunities at eye clinics, eye offices, and vision testing centers. The work environment is a doctor’s office and standard hours may include evenings and weekends. People who report the most satisfaction in this position are detail-oriented, independent, and enjoy working with people.
The first step to becoming an ophthalmic technologist is to complete a training program through a community or career college. This program usually lasts eight to 12 months. Courses include the anatomy of the eye, diagnostic eye exams, eye diseases and communication.
To gain admission to this program, applicants must have high school credits in biology, math, English, and technology. Many of the vision tests are based on computer technology. Advanced computer skills are a huge boon for employers and can help you get a good position.
Most programs offer a co-op course or period of work. This opportunity to gain work experience is very valuable. Effective application of skills learned in class is a proven method of enhancing learning. During job placement, a certified ophthalmic technologist checks all work and guidance is provided to help the student improve their techniques.
Ophthalmic technologists work with a wide range of people. The ability to put people at ease, communicate, and resolve conflicts are all skills needed to become an ophthalmic technologist. Interpersonal skills increase work productivity, create a positive atmosphere and encourage teamwork.
Every patient sees the ophthalmic technologist in the first stage of an ophthalmic consultation. The technologist collects medical history, measures vision, checks for color blindness, tests eye muscles, and discusses current vision problems. Technologists can also provide instruction on wearing contact lenses, administering eye medications, and assisting with post-operative care.
Many ophthalmic technologists take additional courses to learn how to assist the ophthalmologist during eye surgeries and perform ocular angiography and related tests. Ophthalmic technologists typically take continuing education courses to maintain essential skills and keep pace with changes in technology. People who want to advance their careers after becoming an ophthalmic technologist should take additional courses in specific technological tools or equipment as they become available.
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