Optometric Technician

The optometry and eye care industry presents a variety of opportunities for Optometric Technicians. Whether it is assisting with eye exams, selecting frames or making adjustments and repairs, they are an integral part of an optometrist’s office.

Prerequisites

The Optometric Technician course presents an incredible opportunity to those willing to work hard. Students must be prepared to keep up with a fast-paced course. In order to be eligible for this course, students must have a high school diploma or its equivalent, pass an English and Mathematics assessment exam, demonstrate competency in basic computer operations, and be at least 18 years old.

Course Description

This course prepares students to work under the supervision of a licensed eye care professional. They learn to assist in testing patients' vision, provide frame styling services, instruct patients in contact lens handling, and perform routine adjustments and repairs. The course emphasizes the importance of customer service and patient care. It also requires a 120-hour externship out in the field. Prior to the externship students must submit a resume, physician exam, tuberculoses test and proof of certification of CPR for healthcare providers.

This course prepares students for the Certified Paraoptometric Examination (CPO) offered by the American Optometric Association (AOA). This exam is optional, but highly recommended for those who wish to advance in their career.

Course Objectives

At the end of the program students will be able to:

* Identify structures of eye.

* Describe the physiological mechanisms of the eye.

* Contrast the differences between Ophthalmology, Optometry and Opticianry.

* Perform mathematical calculations common in the optical field.

* Describe the theory of light.

* Read and interpret an optical prescription.

* Adjust eyeglass frame to meet the need of the client.

* Complete eyeglass frame repairs.

* Demonstrate the use of optical devices.

* Demonstrate use of lensometer to determine prescriptions of existing lenses.

* Complete a lifestyle analysis with a client.

* Demonstrate selling techniques for multiple pairs of glasses and lens add-ons.

* Demonstrate lens neutralization.