When ophthalmic medical technicians
or technologists ask to look you
in the eye,
they really mean it.
These professionals assist ophthalmologists—
or eye doctors—
to provide eye care to patients.
Ophthalmic medical technicians
and technologists administer eye exams,
dispense eye medications,
and instruct patients in the care
and use of corrective lenses.
They take measurements of the eye
with highly specialized equipment.
Technologists also train and supervise
technicians and assistants,
take diagnostic images of patients’ eyes,
and may assist with minor surgical procedures.
Technicians may measure a patient’s
current lenses for accuracy.
Working with eyes is delicate work.
It takes attention to detail and dexterity.
Interpersonal skills are also important,
whether comforting an anxious patient
or clarifying specifications for lenses.
Generally these skilled professionals
work full time.
Both ophthalmic medical technicians
and technologists typically earn an
ophthalmic technician certificate,
earned in 1-2 years at a community college
or professional school,
then obtain a certification.
When these technicians and technologists
see eye to eye with their patients,
better vision is in sight.