Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or Ophthalmic Healthcare Specialist (Entry-Level)

Hennepin Healthcare is an integrated system of care that includes HCMC, a nationally recognized Level I Adult Trauma Center and Level I Pediatric Trauma Center and acute care hospital, as well as a clinic system with primary care clinics located in Minneapolis and across Hennepin County. The comprehensive healthcare system includes a 473-bed academic medical center, a large outpatient Clinic & Specialty Center, and a network of clinics in the North Loop, Whittier, and East Lake Street neighborhoods of Minneapolis, and in the suburban communities of Brooklyn Park, Golden Valley, Richfield, and St. Anthony Village. Hennepin Healthcare has a large psychiatric program, home care, and operates a research institute, philanthropic foundation, and Hennepin EMS. The system is operated by Hennepin Healthcare System, Inc., a subsidiary corporation of Hennepin County.

Equal Employment Opportunities: We believe equity is essential for optimal health outcomes and are committed to achieve optimal health for all by actively eliminating barriers due to racism, poverty, gender identity, and other determinants of health. We are committed to equitable care and working in an environment that celebrates, promotes, and protects diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We are committed to bringing in individuals with new cultural perspectives to assist in creating a more equitable healthcare organization.

JOB DETAILS
Department: CSC Eye Clinic
FTE: 1.0 (80 hours per pay period)
Workdays: Monday - Friday
Shift(s): Days
Shift Length: 8 hours
Location: In-Person

Purpose of this position: Under close direction of a certified technician, performs work of moderate difficulty in performing a wide range of diagnostic tests for visual acuity and for use by providers in the diagnosis and care of diseases of the eyes.

RESPONSIBILITIES - Healthcare Specialist

• Performs the following job functions under supervision of a certified Technician:
• Obtains and documents medical and ophthalmic history of patients
• Performs and documents a wide range of diagnostic tests and studies such as visual acuity, refraction, central field, and peripheral field testing
• Performs tests for color vision, fusion, biometric ruling, retinal correspondence, intra-ocular pressure, corneal sensitivity, pupillary reactions, and diagnosing glaucoma
• Performs slit lamp photography, contact lens fittings, and diagnostic ultrasound
• May administer ophthalmic medications
• Operates and maintains appropriate medical or diagnostic equipment
• Performs related work as required, but only after appropriate training

RESPONSIBILITIES - Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)

• Obtains and documents medical and ophthalmic history of patients
• Performs and documents a wide range of diagnostic tests and studies such as visual acuity, refraction, central field, and peripheral field testing
• Performs tests for color vision, fusion, biometric ruling, retinal correspondence, intra-ocular pressure, corneal sensitivity, pupillary reactions, and diagnosing glaucoma
• Performs slit lamp photography, contact lens fittings, and diagnostic ultrasound
• May administer ophthalmic medications
• May set up and assist in office surgery
• Operates and maintains appropriate medical or diagnostic equipment
• May assist with clinical research studies
• Orients medical residents in basic ophthalmic examination techniques
• Performs related work as required, but only after appropriate training

QUALIFICATIONS - Healthcare Specialist
Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Two years' experience in customer service involving complex analytical problem-solving skills
• One year of experience in a related field
  OR
• An approved equivalent combination of education and experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability to perform specialized clinical tasks and procedures in alignment with HHS standards
• Knowledge of medical terminology
• Ability to effectively interview patients and collect information required to obtain medical history and to accurately register and/or schedule patients
• Ability to work cohesively and respectfully with a diverse work force and patient population
• Ability to prioritize, organize, and communicate with multidisciplinary staff

Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities:

• Customer service skills
• Problem solving skills

QUALIFICATIONS - Ophthalmic Assistant
Minimum Qualifications:

• Completion of an ophthalmic assistant program accredited by The Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO)
  OR
  
• An approved equivalent combination of education and experience
  Current certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) by The Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) or eligible for certification.

Newly hired or promoted Ophthalmic Assistants who are not certified must begin the process to take the certification exam within the first six months of employment as an Ophthalmic Assistant, and must pass both parts of the exam (written and skill evaluation) within one (1) year of hire or promotion.

You've made the right choice in considering Hennepin Healthcare for your employment. We offer a wealth of opportunities for individuals who want to make an impact in our patients' lives. We are dedicated to providing Equal Employment Opportunities to both current and prospective employees. We are driven to connect talented individuals with life-changing career opportunities, enabling you to provide exceptional care without exception. Thank you for considering Hennepin Healthcare as a future employer.

Please Note: Offers of employment from Hennepin Healthcare are conditional and contingent upon successful clearance of all background checks and pre-employment requirements.

• We offer a competitive pay rate based on your skills, licensure/certifications, education, experience related to this position, and internal equity.
• We provide an extensive benefits program that includes Medical; Dental; Vision; Life, Short and Long-term Term Disability Insurance; Retirement Funds; Paid Time Off; and Tuition reimbursement.
• For a complete list of our benefits, please visit our career site on why you should work for us.