What is the primary role of an ophthalmic assistant or tech at the start of an eye exam?

The primary role of an ophthalmic assistant or technician at the start of an eye exam is to perform pre-testing. This step is crucial as it involves gathering essential information about the patient's vision and ocular health prior to the examination by the ophthalmologist. Pre-testing may include measuring visual acuity, conducting visual field tests, taking intraocular pressure readings, and possibly capturing images of the retina or cornea. By performing these assessments, the ophthalmic assistant ensures that the ophthalmologist has the necessary data to make informed clinical decisions during the eye exam.

While scheduling follow-up appointments, providing payment information, and documenting patient history are also important functions within an ophthalmology practice, these tasks typically occur at different stages of patient interaction. For instance, scheduling follow-ups usually happens after the exam, payment information would be handled upon completion of services, and documenting patient history is often part of the initial intake process, but is not considered a direct part of the examination start. Therefore, performing pre-testing clearly stands out as the primary responsibility at the beginning of an eye exam.