WEBVTT

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When ophthalmic medical technicians

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or technologists ask to look you

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in the eye,

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they really mean it.

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These professionals assist ophthalmologists—

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or eye doctors—

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to provide eye care to patients.

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Ophthalmic medical technicians

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and technologists administer eye exams,

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dispense eye medications,

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and instruct patients in the care

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and use of corrective lenses.

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They take measurements of the eye

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with highly specialized equipment.

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Technologists also train and supervise

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technicians and assistants,

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take diagnostic images of patients’ eyes,

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and may assist with minor surgical procedures.

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Technicians may measure a patient’s

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current lenses for accuracy.

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Working with eyes is delicate work.

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It takes attention to detail and dexterity.

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Interpersonal skills are also important,

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whether comforting an anxious patient

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or clarifying specifications for lenses.

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Generally these skilled professionals

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work full time.

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Both ophthalmic medical technicians

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and technologists typically earn an

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ophthalmic technician certificate,

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earned in 1-2 years at a community college

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or professional school,

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then obtain a certification.

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When these technicians and technologists

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see eye to eye with their patients,

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better vision is in sight.