Diagnostic Testing Tech

Position Overview 

The incumbent serves to support clinical care activities in The Eye Center.  As the Diagnostic Testing Technician, the incumbent performs clinical tests as ordered by a doctor incident to the provision of eye health and vision care services to patients.  The incumbent maintains necessary clinical inventory in support of diagnostic testing, performs routine upkeep of technology and coordinates necessary maintenance and service of technology while maintaining records of service.  The incumbent helps to ensure HIPAA compliance and observes all OSHA guidelines, including disposal of hazardous/biological waste incident to the performance of diagnostic testing.

Essential Functions

• Performs diagnostic testing to include, but not limited to: visual fields, corneal topography, ocular photography, scanning laser topography, Fluorescein angiography and ultrasonography.
• Maintains/monitors Technology Service equipment, troubleshoots problems, and arranges repairs as necessary with in-house equipment support specialist and/or manufacturer representatives.
• Assists with quality assurance and maintenance for the Technology Service, equipment, any hazardous medical waste in conjunction with TEC Public Health / OSHA / Compliance Officer.
• Assists in assuring compliance with Federal Regulations safeguarding personally identifiable health information of patients (I.E. HIPAA) in the Technology Service in conjunction with TEC Privacy Officer.
• Instructs students / Interns on all diagnostic testing procedures, as needed, and under the supervision of faculty.
• Coordinates patient care, with regard to the performance of diagnostic testing for enhanced patient care experience in TEC.
• Provides support for pharmacy refills via the e-prescribe (eRx) program.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Specifications

Education:       High school diploma or equivalent. Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) preferred.

Experience:     Five years of related experience in a optometric/ ophthalmic environment performing appropriate diagnostic testing services and associated clerical duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Technical skills necessary for patient interaction and gathering of technical data as described above.
• Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, optometric physicians, students/interns and patients.
• Ability to analyze data collected and recognize “normal” from “abnormal.
• Ability to perform all technical skills outlined above and to teach basic use of clinical technology utilized in the diagnosis and/or management of eye health and visual disorders.
• Ability to utilize Electronic Health Records and possess computer skills sufficient for administrative rights in Compulink®.
• Must be able to comprehend and follow oral and written instructions.  Ability to organize tasks and maintain control of work flow.  Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and work independently.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations accurately for daily tasks.
• Ability to handle biomedical waste safely and in accordance with all federal regulations.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and demonstrate initiative in performing tasks.

Physical and Environmental Demands

Physical Demands

Prolonged sitting with occasional standing and walking.  Occasional lifting up to 10 pounds.

Audible Demands

Operation of phone system, verbal communication with patients, staff, faculty, students and other external customers.

Visual Demands

Computer use, operation of phone system, preparation of reports, spreadsheets and other documents, reading handwriting.

Color Perception

Environmental Conditions

Work is conducted in a typical indoor work environment with good lighting, noise and temperature control.

Hazards

Minimal risk of injury or work-related illness.

Reasonable accommodations will be made for some physical demands for otherwise qualified individuals who require and request such accommodations.

Other Responsibilities

• Employee must maintain absolute confidentiality of all medical records.
• Employee will be expected to progress through and complete AOA Paraoptometric Training / Certification.

Southern College of Optometry is committed to preparing future generations of our nation’s optometrists to serve diverse patients and communities in the United States and around the world. Our mission to “educate the best possible healthcare providers."

SCO does not discriminate on any basis within our educational programs or in our employment practices. Our success as an academic institution requires an ongoing commitment to fostering an accepting campus atmosphere because we recognize that each individual deserves to feel included and respected.