How do they match: Ophthalmic Medical Technologists

  • Assist ophthalmologists by performing ophthalmic clinical functions and ophthalmic photography. Provide instruction and supervision to other ophthalmic personnel. Assist with minor surgical procedures, applying aseptic techniques and preparing instruments. May perform eye exams, administer eye medications, and instruct patients in care and use of corrective lenses.

  • Assess refractive condition of eyes, using retinoscope.
  • Collect ophthalmic measurements or other diagnostic information, using ultrasound equipment, such as A-scan ultrasound biometry or B-scan ultrasonography equipment.
  • Conduct tests, such as the Amsler Grid test, to measure central visual field used in the early diagnosis of macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diseases of the eye.
  • Create three-dimensional images of the eye, using computed tomography (CT).
  • Educate patients on ophthalmic medical procedures, conditions of the eye, and appropriate use of medications.
  • Instruct patients in the care and use of contact lenses.
  • Measure and record lens power, using lensometers.
  • Measure corneal thickness, using pachymeter or contact ultrasound methods.
  • Measure the thickness of the retinal nerve, using scanning laser polarimetry techniques to aid in diagnosis of glaucoma.
  • Measure visual acuity, including near, distance, pinhole, or dynamic visual acuity, using appropriate tests.
  • Photograph patients' eye areas, using clinical photography techniques, to document retinal or corneal defects.

  • Create advanced digital images of patients using computer imaging systems.
  • Instruct patients in the use of assistive equipment.
  • Supervise medical support personnel.