Optometrist

Roles and responsibilities

Primarily examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye. Prescribe medications, low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy, spectacle lenses, contact lenses and perform specified surgical procedures

Key Responsibilities / Accountabilities

• Examine the patient and perform a Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exam.
• Measure Visual Acuity in each eye for near and distance vision with and without glasses for each patient, and in some patients evaluate Visual Fields and Color Vision and measure the Contrast Sensitivity.
• Perform both Objective Refraction (most be highly skilled in Retinoscope) and Subjective Refraction and Perform Cycloplegic Refraction as needed using Cycloplegic Agents such as Cyclopentolate.
• Detection of Binocular Vision Disorders, Accommodative Disorders, and all type of Strabismus, along with their diagnosis and determining the appropriate treatment.
• Detect Neurological Disorders that Affects the Visual Pathway by evaluation of Pupil Function Contrast Sensitivity, Ocular Motility, Optic Nerve Head and interpretation of Perimetry result and refer the patient to an appropriate physician.
• Conduct pre-and post-operative examinations in cooperation with the surgeon.
• Examine, diagnose, identify Ocular Diseases, and master the skills of using the Slit Lamp and its accessories which includes:
  • Conduct a Comprehensive Eye Exam (Anterior and posterior Segment) independently and writing medical report
  • Condense Lenses (90D, 28D 20D) to examine the Fundus and Gonioscopy to examine the Anterior Chamber Angle.
  • Independent use of diagnostic drugs such as Fluorescein dye, Mydriatics, Cycloplegics, and Topical Anesthetics.
  • Measure the Intraocular Pressure by using Goldmann Applanation Tonometry.
  • Removal of superficial foreign bodies from the surface of the eye and Eyelash Epilation and Installing punctum plugs for Dry Eye.
• Referral to an ophthalmologist when there is or is suspected of one of the following, for example, but not limited to:
  • Diseases of the Retina and Vitreous Body that need surgical intervention such as Retinal Detachment, Macular Hole or Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR).
  • Diabetic Retinopathy with Macular Edema or Hemorrhage in the center of vision.
  • Hypertensive Eye Disease and Retinal Venous or Arterial Occlusive Disease.
  • When the patient has emergency Diplopia.
  • Presence of advanced Cataract.
  • Hemorrhage or Inflammation in the Anterior Chamber or the Vitreous.
  • Presence of Corneal Dystrophy or active Keratoconus.
  • Presence of Corneal Laceration with Positive Seidel Test or Conjunctival Laceration more than 1 cm.
  • Presence of Strabismus that needs surgical treatment.
  • For second opinion or when the diagnosis is not confirmed.
• Referral to physician from other specialties with a request for the necessary analyzes and tests:
  • Refer to the Family Physician when there is one of the signs of Diabetes or high Blood Pressure in the Retina of a patient who has not been diagnosed before.
  • Referral to the Family Physician when anemia is suspected through conjunctival signs.
  • Refer to a Neurologist when there is papilledema.
  • Refer to the Family Physician when it is suspected that the patient has an infectious or immune disease.
• Arrange stationery supplies and medications from the Pharmacy as and when required.
• Teach and counsel patients in the preventive aspects of eye care and proper use of eye drops or ointment.
• Participate in person-centered care initiatives undertaken by HMG.
• Enrich patient experience with compassion, respect and dignity.
• Perform other applicable tasks and duties assigned within the realm of his knowledge, skills and abilities.

Desired candidate profile

• Eye Exams & Diagnosis:

  • Perform thorough eye exams to evaluate vision and eye health.
  • Assess visual acuity, depth perception, color vision, and coordination.
  • Use diagnostic tools and instruments to detect refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism) and conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
  • Identify and diagnose ocular diseases or abnormalities, including diabetic retinopathy and dry eye disease.

• Prescription & Treatment:

  • Prescribe corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses) based on the results of the eye exam.
  • Offer solutions for vision correction, including bifocals, progressive lenses, or contact lenses.
  • Provide pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing eye surgery, such as LASIK or cataract surgery.
  • Recommend and provide low vision aids and treatments for patients with impaired vision.

• Patient Education & Recommendations:

  • Educate patients on maintaining eye health and proper eye care, including safety and hygiene practices.
  • Recommend lifestyle adjustments, eye exercises, or the use of protective eyewear for specific conditions.
  • Counsel patients about potential risks to eye health and preventative measures.

• Collaboration with Medical Team:

  • Work with ophthalmologists and other healthcare professionals for more complex eye conditions that may require medical or surgical intervention.
  • Refer patients to specialists when necessary, such as for advanced medical treatments or surgeries.

• Record Keeping & Administration:

  • Maintain accurate patient records, including medical histories, prescriptions, and treatments.
  • Update patient charts with diagnoses and progress notes.
  • Handle billing, insurance claims, and other administrative tasks associated with patient care.