Ophthalmic Assistant Training
“SEE” Yourself as an Ophthalmic Assistant
The ophthalmic assistant (OA) is a healthcare professional who works alongside ophthalmologists and optometrists to provide patient care in an ophthalmology setting.
OAs assist with all clinical duties including but not limited to: monitoring patient arrivals, performing basic eye exams, gathering and documentation of patient health and eye history, providing patient assistance with navigating the clinic, and providing an exceptional patient experience.
No experience, no worries! Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center offers on-the-job training to provide the knowledge and skills needed to perform all the job duties of an OA in the Lebanon-based eye clinic.
Successful trainees are eligible and expected to sit for the iJCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Exam (COA) within their first year of work. The International Joint Commission of Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology is the certifying body of allied health professionals in ophthalmology. This training opens an advanced career pathway and opportunities to pursue additional iJCAHPO certifications such as Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT), Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT), and others.
Ophthalmic Assistant Spotlight:
Meet Elaheh:
“The road to becoming a professional in the medical field can be long and challenging, but with patience and persistence, you will be able to achieve your goals. Embrace the challenge and enjoy the journey!” – Elaheh MosharafDehkordi, OA
Elaheh began her healthcare career in the field of Audiology in Iran. Upon moving to the United States in 2021, Elaheh began exploring ways to get back into healthcare while also building her English proficiency. After learning about the role of the Ophthalmic Assistant, she immediately connected with the clinic and began training. The academics, hands-on clinical experience, and passionate and dedicated team solidified her decision to embark upon a career in ophthalmology. These same characteristics Elaheh brought to her studies led to her success in her role.