Clinical Ophthalmic Assistant Certificate
Program Number:
905161
Certificate
Program Courses offered at the following Campuses:
About
The Clinical Ophthalmic Assistant certificate expands the curriculum of the Optometric Technician Program. The Ophthalmic Assistant works under the supervision of an ophthalmologist. The curriculum of the certificate includes:
•Anatomical and functional measurements of the eye such corneal thicknes (pachymetry) and length of the eye (A-scan);
•Assisting in minor surgical procedures;
•Caring for, maintaining, and sterilizing surgical instruments;
•Scribing for the doctor during eye examinations;
•Complex medical case history taking;
•Affect of systemic diseases on the eye.
An important aspect of the certificate is the clinical experience given to the student. The students will refine the skills learned by working directly with doctors and patients during an eight-week summer clinical session.
MATC is seeking accreditation for this certificate from the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology
Admissions
Certificate Eligibility
Admission to this certificate program is through the Optometric Technician Program. At the completion of the certificate it is the student’s responsibility to request the certificate by calling (608) 246-6065 once all of the required classes have been completed and grades have been received. A grade of C or better is required in each course to award the certificate. No more than 50% of the certificate credits may be through advance standing.
Employment
Career Potential:
- Ophthalmic Assistant
- Optometric Technician - Person assists an optometrist or ophthalmologist in the delivery of eye care.
- Duties may include preliminary testing procedures, dispensing of glasses and contact lenses and front office management.
- Dispensing Optician - This person specializes in the fitting and dispensing of eyewear. They may be employed by an optometrist, ophthalmologist or clinic, or own their own optical dispensary.
- Contact Lens Technician - Duties may include the ordering, verification and dispensing of contact lenses. The contact lens technician may also assist the doctor in chairside techniques of fitting contact lenses.
Additional Info about the Program:
Program Requirements
1) Physical exam and completed Personal History Form on file prior to beginning the clinical affiliation
2) written proof of Adult and Child CPR certification prior to beginning the clinical affiliation.
Last Modified: November 5, 2009