Optometry Technician/Optician

INTRODUCTION

The Nimiipuu Health Optometry Technician/Optician supports the Supervising Optometrist in providing quality eye care to promote clear vision and excellent ocular health for the patients they serve. The employee performs patient-oriented services in a medical office setting.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

FRONT OFFICE DUTIES:

1. Deliver excellent customer service to ensure that each person, internally and externally, is greeted professionally with each and every interaction.

2. Proficiently schedule appointments using various software. Obtain insurance authorizations; support Patient Care Coordinators (PCC) in updating and verifying pertinent demographic information, especially health/vision insurance information.

3. Expertly use various methods of communication including multi-line phone system; precisely document and handle communications to and from patients/labs/referral sites and other in-house departments; answer or refer any inquiries to appropriate resources, personnel or department.

4. Properly and promptly handle referrals/consults to and from Nimiipuu Health Optometry and monitor them: Supply referral sites with all required information; inform patients of what to expect in the referral process; ensure the optometrist has taken proper steps for Purchase and Referred Care (PRC) to generate Purchase Order for the PRC eligible patients; make sure all correspondences are received in a timely manner.

5. Diffuse customer/patient conflicts in a calm, positive and professional manner.

6. Attend in-house meetings as a department representative when directed by the Supervising Optometrist and provide meeting summary upon return.

7. Track and maintain adequate clinic inventory.

OPTICIAN DUTIES:

1. Assist patients with frame and lens selections with thorough understanding of each product, patients’ needs, and doctor’s orders and prescriptions; educate patients on proper care and handling of products and possible adaptations.

2. Proficiently utilize equipment to make accurate measurements (segment heights for Add power, interpupillary distance, prescriptions verification, etc.) for ordering and final quality check prior to dispensing product.

3. Adjust/repair frames and parts using professional equipment for proper fitting of glasses.

4. Create correct work orders, keep track and handle them in timely manner. Keep close communication with ophthalmic labs, Business Office department and PRC for prompt order processing and to resolve any order related issues and conflicts.

5. Maintain clean, orderly and safe work environment during and between patient encounters, including but not limited to cleaning frames and equipment.

OPTOMETRIC TECHNICAN DUTIES:

1. Obtain clear chief complaint/reason for each visit, other exam-related health information and perform accurate pre-tests in a timely manner, for patients presenting for an eye exam.

2. Perform diagnostic tests accurately and in timely manner for smooth flow of patient care.

3. May need to aid patients in and out of exam rooms for optometry visits, or escort them from Optometry to proper locations within Nimiipuu Health when indicated.

4. Properly triage for urgent exams; answer patients’ questions and assist the Optometrist in patient education regarding their conditions and referral processes with great understanding of common ocular and visual conditions, medical terminology and common procedures and processes.

5. Communicate clearly with outside clinics and/or other in-house departments conforming to HIPAA regulations to provide the Optometrist the most up to date information for optimal patient care and follow up.

6. Maintain clean and sterile work environment during and between patient visits, including but not limited to sanitizing patient care areas; ensure necessary supplies and equipment are available and are in working condition especially in exam rooms; maintain adequate clinic inventory.

GENERAL DUTIES:

1. Adheres to and promotes compliance with applicable laws, safety codes, HRM, Vehicle Use Maintenance Manual, Finance Manual and department policies and procedures.

2. Must have positive work history; responsible for maintaining a consistent and regular attendance record; maintain strict confidentiality. May be required to work during irregular work hours; position is non-shift specific (day, swing, or graveyard) and weekends, as needed, in response to a pandemic or declared emergency.

3. Pandemic or declared emergency duties as related and assigned.

4. Perform other related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Requires High School Diploma or Equivalent with at least two (2) years of previous experience in customer service. Prefer at least 1 year of previous work experience in health care setting utilizing electronic health record. Previous experience with medical terminology, computer skills including Microsoft Office programs highly preferred. American Board of Opticianry/American Optometric Association Paraoptometric certification preferred. Previous cash handling preferred. Required to take cash handling training within 90 days of hire. Knowledge of history, culture, and health needs of Native American communities preferred. Requires sufficient hand dexterity, strong organization skills, attention to detail and excellent ability to multitask. Must be personable and possess excellent communication skills, both oral and written, and be able to handle conflict in a positive and calm manner. Must have positive work history. Requires a valid driver’s license with an insurable record under the Tribe’s policy. Must pass an extensive background check, pre-employment drug and alcohol screening. Tribal/Indian Preference applies.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The work is performed in a clinical setting. Requires standing, walking, sitting, bending, and stooping for extended periods of time. Requires eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity sufficient to operate a variety of office equipment. Requires normal range of hearing and eyesight. May be required to lift up to 25 pounds. Common exposure to contagious and infectious diseases and bodily fluids. Potential exposure to unpredictable behavior from patients, families and visitors. Nimiipuu Health is a smoke-free and drug-free workplace.

EMPLOYEE HEALTH

Will be required to maintain compliance with all Nimiipuu Employee Health requirements as identified in the Infection Control Policies. Must maintain current BLS certification.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $15.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15 - $22