Optometrist

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title : Optometrist

Job Code : OPTOMETR

Department : Eye Clinic

Division : Operations

Salary Level : Professional 2 - Exempt

Reports to : Clinical Director

Last Revised : March 2022

Primary Function

Applicant provides general optometric services, which would include refraction, dilation, biometry measurements, contact lens fitting services, and acute and chronic eye disease management for patients at the Cherokee Indian Hospital and outlying clinics. Responsible for a full range of clinical optometric diagnosis and treatment for all of the most prevalent types of vision dysfunctions, with special emphasis on the geriatric patients needs such as diabetes, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma and the detection / referral of patients with ocular disease or ocular manifestations of systemic disease such as carotid disease.

Job Description

• Oversees patient diagnosis, treatment and prevention of vision problems and diseases.
• Performs tests for possible sight related problems and diseases.
• Prescribes glasses and contact lenses; prescribes rehabilitation of the impaired eyes.
• Examines, diagnoses, treats, and manages diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures, as well as diagnoses related systemic conditions.
• Performs examinations for both the internal and external structures of the eye, and subjective and objective tests to evaluate vision; analyzes the test findings; diagnoses and determines appropriate treatments; communicates and educates patients.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Responsibilities

Independently perform the full range of optometric procedures and instrumentation techniques with little or no guidance or consultation. They perform such duties as :

Scope and Effect

The purpose of the work is to provide optometry care to patients throughout various wards and clinics of the hospital using standard equipment and treatment. The work contributes to the further treatment provided by the physicians and nurses.

Education / Experience

One year of approved residency training or its creditable equivalent acceptable to the Council on Optometric Education of the American Optometric Association is acceptable in lieu of 2 years of practice.

Is a recognized expert in the diagnosis and treatment of unusual and complicated visual dysfunctions. Typically, in this capacity serves as a consultant to other health care professionals.

Supervision Received

Optometrist receives guidance primarily in the form of guidelines and general policy directives from the Executive Director of Clinical Services.

Responsibility for Accuracy

Government regulations, Tribal regulations, compliance with grants, and third party payers require the submitting of accurate patient information to allow for appropriate reimbursement for patient visits. The submission of false or inaccurate information would place the agency at risk for fraudulent claims.

Confidential Data

The Privacy Act of 1974 and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, mandates that the optometrist shall maintain complete confidentiality of all administrative, medical and personnel records and all other pertinent information that comes to his / her attention or knowledge. The Privacy Act carries both civil and criminal penalties for unlawful disclosure of records. Violations of such confidentiality shall be cause for adverse action.

Mental / Visual / Physical

The work requires long periods of standing and walking. There is frequent bending, reaching, and stooping to utilize optometric equipment. The optometrist must often lift and reposition patients for treatment. Position is subject to frequent interruptions requiring varied responses and deadlines. May occasionally move more than 15 pounds.

Environment

All functions related to this position are normally performed within the hospital, clinic or office setting. Incidental use of a government vehicle may occur requiring a valid state driver’s license. Occasional travel by car and air is required.

Scope of Supervision

Optometrist is required to supervise multiple staff members / employees from diverse specialty fields and knowledge of operations. Optometrist may act as contracting officer for projects of communication and information systems. Applicant may act as ‘indirect’ supervisor of employees of different tribal programs working on projects concerning the CIH. In collaboration with the Clinical Director or designee, the employee will develop and monitor performance expectations for the department and staff.

Customer Service

Consistently demonstrates superior customer service skills to patients / customers by demonstrating characteristics that align with CIHA’s guiding principles and core values. Ensure excellent customer service is provided to all patients / customers by seeking out opportunities to be of service.