◀︎   BACK TO CAREER CATALOG

Ophthalmic Medical Technologist

What does an Ophthalmic Medical Technologist do?

Ophthalmic medical technologists represent the highest level of ophthalmic medical personnel. They assist ophthalmologists by collecting data and test measurements to ensure the accurate diagnosis and treatment of various disease processes. They are generally employed by ophthalmologists in private practice, clinics or hospitals.

What might an Ophthalmic Medical Technician do in a workday?

Ophthalmic technologists:

  • take patient’s history and test vision.
  • test patients for glaucoma.
  • assist in determining glasses prescriptions and fit contact lenses.
  • perform photography and ultrasonography duties.
  • assist in eye surgery.
  • supervise ophthalmic personnel.
  • perform diagnostic testing.

Developing a Career as an Ophthalmic Medical Technician

Among the specialties within the field are ophthalmic photography, ophthalmic ultrasonography, contact lenses, ophthalmic surgical technology, electrophysiology and low-vision optics. Ophthalmic technologists also may specialize in pediatric, general or gerontologic ophthalmology.

How much salary do Ophthalmic Medical Technicians make?

Annual Mean Wage
$35,940

How do I become an Ophthalmic Medical Technician?

Students interested in becoming ophthalmic technologists should take high school courses in science, math and English.

After high school graduation (or GED), students should complete two years of college (60 credit hours) with an emphasis in science before applying to a two-year ophthalmic technology program.

Graduates of all accredited ophthalmic technology programs are eligible to sit for national certifying exams given by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology.

Where else can I learn about becoming an Ophthalmic Medical Technologist?

Professional Associations:

American Academy of Ophthalmology
P.O. Box 7424
San Francisco, CA 94120-7424
(415) 561-8500
www.aao.org

Association of Technical Personnel in Ophthalmology
2025 Woodlane Drive
St. Paul, MN 55125-2998

(800) 482-4858
www.atpo.org

Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology
2025 Woodlane Drive
St. Paul, MN 55125-2998

(651) 731-2944
(800) 284-3937
www.jcahpo.org

Virginia Society of Ophthalmic Medical Personnel
7706 Balla Court
Richmond, VA 23228

(804) 330-9303
www.vsomp.org

State License Requirements for Ophthalmic Medical Technologists

A license is required to practice as an ophthalmic medical technologist in the state of Virginia. For more information on licensure, applications and forms, visit www.dhp.virginia.gov/medicine.

Virginia Board of Medicine
Perimeter Center
9960 Mayland Drive
Suite 300
Henrico, Virginia 23233

Phone: (804) 367-4600
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

^ Top