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Ophthalmic Technologists are
specialists in eye health care that assist the Ophthalmologist in caring
the patient. They are trained to collect medical histories, administer eye
medications, and perform tests that help to ensure the accurate diagnosis
and treatment of a diseased eye. Ophthalmic technologists use
sophisticated equipment, such as ultrasound and ophthalmic photographs, to
gather information about a patient’s condition during eye examinations.
They may also be called upon to assist with eye surgeries, using intricate
technical instruments and equipment. They are usually in charge of making
sure that the patient understands his or her diagnosis and the treatment
that is prescribed.
Career specialties in this field
include ophthalmic photography, ophthalmic ultrasonography, contact
lenses, ophthalmic surgical technology, electrophysiology, and low-vision
optics. Ophthalmic technologists usually supervise and instruct other
ophthalmic personnel, such as ophthalmic assistants and technicians.
Individuals interested in this eye health care specialty should have
excellent communication skills, be able to handle hectic schedules, be
highly organized, and be able to rely on their own judgment.
Work Environment:
Ophthalmic technologists are generally
employed by ophthalmologists in private practices, clinics, or hospitals.
The typical workweek is 40 hours long and may include evenings or weekend
depending on the patients’ needs.
High School Preparation:
High school students interested in
ophthalmic technology should take courses in biology, chemistry, physics,
health occupations/medical professions education, computer skills,
algebra, foreign language, English, literature, history, and social
studies.
College Requirements:
Individuals interested in becoming an
ophthalmic technologist must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Students should complete two years of college (60 credit hours) with an
emphasis on science and then apply to a two-year technologist training
program. Upon graduation from an accredited program, students may become
certified by taking an examination given by the Joint Commission on Allied
Health Personnel in Ophthalmology.
Students interested in ophthalmic
technology should contact schools for information on admission and course
of study.
For educational institutions in
Mississippi
offering this course of study click here.
Career Outlook:
Employment opportunities for ophthalmic
technologists should be very good over the next decade. The demand will
continue to increase because of the growing elderly population in this
country. As the baby boom generation grows older, more vision care
specialists will be needed to keep up with demand. Employment
opportunities will also become available as people within the profession
retire or leave the workplace for other reasons. |
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Salary:
Average Annual Salary
$34,400
Salary Range
$28,500-$42,600
Professional Organizations:
Association of Technical Personnel in
Ophthalmology
2025 Woodlane Drive
St. Paul, MN
55125-2995
Phone: (651) 731-7239
Fax: (651) 731-0410
www.atpo.org
Joint Commission on Allied Health
Personnel in Ophthalmology
2025 Woodlane Drive
St. Paul, MN
55125-2295
Phone: (800) 284-3937
Fax: (615) 731-0410
www.jcahpo.org |
