Optometric Assistant

The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is a vital member of our team, responsible for ensuring a great patient experience by preparing patients for onsite and/or remote examinations, completing pre-exam diagnostic tests, and explaining each step of the process.

This role acts as a liaison between our patients and Optometrists, participating in the initial steps of a patient journey.

• Complete patient registration, gathering and submitting pertinent patient information, including Medical History and Ocular Health data into EMR.

• Assist onsite doctors with patient care and eye examinations, clearly explaining the preliminary testing process to patients, administering each preliminary test, and accurately documenting results in EMR.

• For patients with remote appointments, the Clinical Specialist will assist patients through the remote eye exam process, including pre-testing, specialty testing, and accurately documenting results in EMR.

• Initiate remote technician and remote doctor video conferencing, assist remote doctors and technicians to complete additional testing required for a remote exam.

• Transition patients to retail associates, conveying the recommendations of the doctor to the retail associate.

• Have a strong understanding of MVC plans and be able to articulate plan benefits to patients.

• Preauthorize insurance in accordance with standard operating procedures.

• Schedule appointments and manage exam books according to Company guidelines, including contacting no shows and cancellations.

• Maintain patient flow to allow for doctor effectiveness.

• Answer patients' clinical questions in person and over the telephone, triage ocular emergencies, and schedule annual eye exams.

• Maintain complete and accurate patient records according to Company standards.

• Instruct patients on the insertion, removal, cleaning, care, and proper handling of their contact lenses.

• Place diagnostic contact lens orders for patients and stock, notify patients when their contact lenses are available for dispensing.

• Have a working knowledge of contact lens brands and parameters, accurately pull contact lenses trials when requested by the doctor.

• Ensure a clean and healthy environment for our patients by maintaining doctor equipment and clinical supplies, as well as ensuring equipment is covered nightly.

• Participate in specialized training of all responsibilities and complete required clinical certification(s).

• Ability to work flexible schedules to meet changing business demands, including traveling to other locations.

• One (1) year of related experience

• Optical or Healthcare background preferred

• Medical office/business professionalism required

• HS diploma, GED or equivalent related job experience

• Training provided

• Patient advocate

• Excellent customer service skills

• Ability to initiate immediate interaction, coordination, and collaboration with patients and team members

• Very detail orientated and well organized

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with other associates and patients

• Work under stress with interruptions and deadlines

• Energetic and self-motivated

• Team player

• Excelling problem-solving ability

• Ability to multi-task

• Exhibit empathy in all interactions

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret insurance forms

• Follow procedures and instructions

• Read English

• Operate and enter data into electronic software platforms efficiently and accurately

• Work changing schedules to meet business demands, including travel between stores

• Work inside store location

• Use computers, electronics tablets, and pre-testing instruments effectively

• Reach above shoulder continuously

Visionworks is an equal opportunity employer, committed to the hiring, advancement, and fair treatment of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, ethnicity, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected status designated by federal, state, or local law.