Program Description
Ophthalmic Medical Assisting is a nationally accredited training program, accredited by the Joint Commision on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology in 2008. CTE, in partnership with Fletcher Allen Health Care, offers an exciting program in Ophthalmic Medical Assisting (OMA). This comprehensive program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ophthalmic Medical Programs as a formal, non-clinical, training program. Ophthalmic Medical Assisting is a highly professional career for students strong in the areas of math and science. The program will train students to work under the supervision of an ophthalmologist to perform ophthalmic clinical duties such as: taking patient histories, providing patient services, taking eye measurements, administering tests and evaluations, and assisting in surgery. Qualified students will participate in a program that combines both academic instruction and clinical experience. Following a four month introductory period of intensive lecture and lab skill development, qualified students will be assigned to clinical rotations. In these rotations students will work side by side with physicians and technicians in the clinical setting. The OMA field is growing rapidly each year. There are currently many more opportunities for qualified assistants than there are candidates to fill them. Income ranges from $11.76 during the clinical training phase, to $14.00 per hour starting salary once certification is attained. Ophthalmic assistants advance up through three levels through mastery of competencies. Top-level technicians earn $21.56 per hour or more depending on region.

Curriculum Components
* General Anatomy and Physiology
* Medical Terminology
* Medical Law and Ethics
* Ocular Anatomy and Physiology
* Optics
* Ophthalmic Pharmacology
* Ocular Motility
* Introduction to Diseases of the Eye
* Visual Fields
* Tonometry
* Contact Lenses
* Surgical Assisting
* Care and Maintenance of Ophthalmic Equipment
* Refractometry
* Supervised Clinical Experience

Career Academy Opportunities and Rewards:
There are a variety of career experiences offered, including: work-based learning, school-to-work cooperative opportunities and apprenticeships. In addition, all high school students at the Center for Technology, Essex may seek eligibility for enrollment in a variety of college level courses offered through local colleges.

What's Next/Professional Certification Credentials Offered:
Upon graduating, students will be prepared to enter the work force or continue their education. Prior to graduation, students have the option to take the National Certifying Exam, at their own expense, after completing a total of 500 hours of clinical experience. Students will be awarded their COA certification by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology.

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