An optometric technician assists optometrists collecting patient data, administering vision therapy, educating patients about vision products or procedures, performing lab work, tracking or maintaining inventory, scheduling and other administrative tasks, and performing various vision tests. Their work ensures that the optometrist’s office runs smoothly and efficiently, allowing the doctor to see more patients and focus on more advanced optometry tasks. To do this job, you’ll need formal training.
An optometric technician gathers information about the vision patient in most offices. He might, for example, double-check basic information like the patient’s address or current prescription strength. He also obtains information about the patient’s medical history, as some medical conditions, such as diabetes, are known to have an impact on vision. The technician can create an initial assessment of what the optometrist should focus on during the examination or treatment based on this information. The technician updates the patient’s file with new information as needed.
Physical therapy may be required in order for a patient’s vision to improve. When an optometrist recommends vision therapy, the technician assists the patient in “exercising” their eyes. This refers to more than just eye muscles; it also includes working with the brain and improving how the brain interprets and processes visual data.
Although optometrists are qualified to conduct vision tests with patients, it is more efficient for them to delegate some therapeutic tasks to technicians so that they can focus on more complex duties. An optometric technician can perform tests such as depth perception, color vision, pupil reflexes, and blood pressure. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and visual field testing are other examples.
Patients who visit an optometrist are often unaware of the tests or procedures that must be performed as part of their visual health. When this occurs, the optometric technician acts as an educator, explaining what the tests or procedures will achieve and how the technician or optometrist will carry them out. The technician’s role as an educator also extends to basic eye and visual aid care, with the technician instructing patients on how to properly care for their glasses or contacts.
Optometric technologists occasionally perform laboratory work, such as grinding lenses, when they are not working directly with patients. They also devote time to inventory management, ordering supplies as needed. It is the optometrist’s responsibility to clean the optometry equipment on a regular basis and to report any problems that are discovered. Administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments with patients, maintaining record databases, and billing may be performed him, but these are usually handled a receptionist or secretary.