An ophthalmic optician helps patients choose and fit eyeglasses using prescriptions from an ophthalmologist or optometrist. They work closely with patients to select frames, lenses, and coatings based on lifestyle and measure eyes to issue work orders to technicians. They also manage office operations, repair damaged frames, and fit patients for contact lenses.
An ophthalmic distribution optician helps patients select and fit eyeglasses. Dispensing opticians use prescriptions written by an ophthalmologist or optometrist when completing this work. An ophthalmic ophthalmologist works closely with the patient to help select the eyeglass frames, lenses, and lens coatings that will work best with the patient’s lifestyle.
An ophthalmic ophthalmologist measures the patient’s eyes in several areas, including the distance between the pupils and the distance between the ocular surface of the eye and the lens. Using these measures, in addition to discussing the patient’s occupation, hobbies, and other lifestyle issues, the ophthalmologist issues a work order to an eye lab technician. The lab technician interprets this information, grinds the lenses and fits them into the frames.
If a patient already has a pair of glasses and their vision has not changed, an ophthalmic eye doctor can use a device called a focusometer to determine the prescription in the patient’s current glasses. The optician can then submit a work order for new eyeglasses using these measurements. After the glasses come back from the lab, the ophthalmologist will test them to make sure the prescription is correct.
When the new glasses are ready, the ophthalmic ophthalmologist will call the patient back and adjust the glasses to his face. The frames can be adjusted by gentle manipulation by hand or with pliers. During this fit, the ophthalmologist will ensure that the glasses are comfortable and will also ensure that the prescription works correctly for the patient.
The ophthalmic ophthalmologist can also work with the glasses that have been broken. He or she can adjust and repair the damaged frames. A distribution optician can also order replacement lenses for existing frames.
In some offices, the distribution optician is also responsible for managing the office. In cases like this, the optician must track sales and invoices and maintain patient records. This includes records of what prescription the patient has, a copy of each work order, and how and when the patient paid for an order. In offices where a distribution optician works as the office manager, additional business management training is usually provided.
Distribution ophthalmic opticians also fit patients for contact lenses, although this requires specialized training. Proper fit is imperative for comfortable contact lenses, so the dispensing optician should be comfortable taking accurate measurements of the eye. The ophthalmologist will also teach the patient how to insert and remove the lenses, as well as how to properly clean them.
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