Ophthalmic technicians work with ophthalmologists and assist them treating eye issues including vision disorders and eye diseases. Once you become an ophthalmic technician, you will take the patients’ medical histories, test their vision, educate patients on how to use contact lenses properly, sterilize and organize optical equipment, and administer diagnostic tests. You do not need a college degree to do this job, but you will go through several classes and on-the-job training.
Graduate high school or earn your GED. This is mandatory for you to be eligible to enroll in the Ophthalmic Technician program.
Enroll in and complete an accredited Ophthalmic Technician program. You can visit the websites http://localeyesite.com/my-career/schools and http://www.getdegrees.com/p/ophthalmic-technician for a list of schools that offer Ophthalmic Technician programs. In this program, you will attend classes such as ocular anatomy and physiology, psychology, medical ethics, microbiology and ophthalmic pharmacology.
Participate and complete your practicum as required by the Opthalmic Technician Program. During your practicum, you will be trained by experienced ophthalmic personnel.
Take the Certified Ophthalmic Technician exam upon graduating from the program. This exam is given by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology. (See Resources)
Pass the certification exam and become a certified ophthalmic technician. Continue your training by working with credible ophthalmologists and learning on-the-job.
Tip
You can earn more money if you specialize in a specific aspect of ophthalmology such as neuro-ophthalmology and ocular oncology.
