Optometrist

* A Relocation/Recruitment Incentive may be authorized for qualified applicants

The Optometry/ Blind Rehabilitation Section Chief is aligned under the Chief, Optometry Service at the Saginaw Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC).

VA offers a comprehensive total rewards package.

This is an open continuous announcement until April 24, 2024. Qualified applicants will be considered and referred as vacancies become available.

General Description:

The position is located in the Optometry Service and is aligned under the Chief, Optometry Service at the Saginaw Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC). The duties and responsibilities are carried out throughout the medical center and CBOCs including all clinical, administrative, and other patient care areas involved with the service, and as assigned.

Scope of Practice but not limited to:

1. Management Authority - evaluation, interpretation, diagnosis, and management of condition of the visual system. This includes inpatient, CLC and outpatient care and tele-health care.
2. Consultative Authority - Accept referral from other health care providers of patients with conditions of the visual system for services delineated in this document. Also, to refer to appropriate health care provider(s)of patients with medical, surgical, and/or psychiatric conditions not covered by optometric privileges delineated in this document.
3. Prescriptive Authority - may initiate drug therapy on all topical ophthalmic pharmaceutical agents for the examination of the eye and adnexa. Prescribe all oral agents as defined in licensure for anterior segment ocular disease including glaucoma agents. Have the ability to utilize and order all basic ophthalmic prosthetic devices including spectacles, contact lenses and low vision devices.
4. Ordering Authority- clinician may order appropriate lab tests, imaging or diagnostic procedures for proper diagnosis and management protocols related to condition of the visual system.
5. Completion of Compensation and Pension Examinations after on-site training (requires VHA Certification[DEMO])
6. Removal of superficial foreign body.
7. Interpretation and management of digital retinal images (requires VHA Certification)