Para-Optometric Technician

Position Purpose:

Under the direction of the Optometrist, the Para-Optometric Technician (POT) provides support and assistance in the delivery of eye care services to patients at Wesley Health Center. Within their regulatory scope of practice, the POT helps ensure that all patients receive high-quality optometric care and a positive patient experience by serving as a link between the patient and the Optometrist and assisting with preparation for the health visit.

Principal Responsibilities:

1. Assists with patient care and eye examinations, including pre-testing patients, maintaining patient records, and supporting efficient patient flow throughout the examination process.

2. Performs diagnostic and pre-testing procedures to assist the Optometrist with accurate diagnosis and treatment within an appropriate timeframe.

3. Assists with the proper operation and use of diagnostic equipment, including, but not limited to, the pupilometer, lensometer, autorefractor, keratometer, fundus camera, visual field/perimetry equipment, and optical coherence tomography (OCT).

4. Reviews prescriptions and patient information carefully, identifies special patient needs, and consults with the Optometrist as appropriate.

5. Obtains appropriate measurements for eyeglasses and contact lenses and provides patients with information regarding the benefits and limitations of various eyewear options.

6. Provides patients with information and guidance regarding frame options, eyewear care, and prescription ordering procedures.

7. Assists patients with frame adjustments to ensure proper fit, comfort, and alignment.

8. Assists with maintaining and managing inventory of frames, equipment, contact lenses, and other optical supplies.

9. Provides excellent customer service and assists with addressing and resolving patient concerns, including situations involving dissatisfied patients, in a professional and courteous manner.

10. Performs assigned duties accurately, efficiently, and thoroughly while maintaining quality of care in a fast-paced environment with varying patient volumes.

11. Maintains, handles, and files patient records in an organized and efficient manner in accordance with organizational standards, applicable regulations, and HIPAA requirements.

12. Supports the Optometrist with contact lens examinations and related services, including contact lens care and education, inventory management, and processing patient contact lens orders.

13. Maintains and disinfects clinical and diagnostic equipment in accordance with established protocols and provides additional clinical support to the Optometrist as needed.

14. Adhere to all organizational safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements to ensure a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors.

15. Participate in required safety and compliance trainings and apply learned practices in daily work activities.

16. Identify, report, and help mitigate unsafe conditions, incidents, or hazards in the workplace.

17. Use equipment, tools, and supplies safely and responsibly in accordance with organizational and regulatory standards.

18. Maintain awareness of infection control, occupational health, and emergency preparedness procedures appropriate to the role.

19. Participate in JWCH’s customer service training called AIDET on an annual basis.

    • Demonstrate an understanding of AIDET (Acknowledge, Introduce, Duration, Explanation, and Thank You) to apply in patient encounters or team discussions.
    • Utilize the AIDET communication framework to communicate with patients and team members in a manner that reduces patient anxiety, increases patient compliance, and improves clinical outcomes.

    20. Perform all other duties assigned.

Requirements:

1. High school diploma or equivalent.

2. At least one (1) year of customer service experience.

3. At least one (1) year of experience working in a healthcare setting.

4. Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.

5. Ability to assess priorities, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

6. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with patients and staff from diverse socioeconomic, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds.

7. Bilingual English/Spanish skills preferred.

8. Optometric Technician certification preferred.

9. Basic Life Support (BLS)/CPR certification through the American Heart Association preferred.

10. Certified Paraoptometric Technician (CPOT) credential preferred.

Employee Benefits:

At JWCH Institute, Inc., we believe in taking care of those who take care of others. If you work 30+ hours per week, you’ll enjoy competitive pay and a robust benefits package that includes:

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Monthly employer-sponsored allowance for assistance with health premiums.
• Funded Health Savings Account (up to deductible) to assist with carrier-approved medical expenses.
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave) and 13 paid holidays.
• 401(k) Safe Harbor Profit Sharing plan.
• Mileage reimbursement.
• Short- and long-term disability plans (LTD/STD).
• Life insurance policy & AD&D, and more!

Become part of a team where your work matters. Apply today and help us change lives, one patient at a time.

JWCH Institute, Inc + Wesley Health Centers is an Equal Opportunity and Fair Chance Employer.