Optometrist

Under the general direction and supervision of the exempt optometrist or exempt designee, performs routine procedures using independent professional judgment in the practice of optometry within the scope of the laws of the state of California, the rules and regulations of the California Board of Optometry and the policies of The Permanente Medical Group, Inc.

Essential Responsibilities

Conducts and documents history including chief complaint, relevant symptoms as appropriate; pertinent ocular health, family and medical history, medications; current spectacle/contact lens and any other data required to manage the patients vision and ocular health needs.

Performs minimum as well as appropriate additional testing as needed based on the specific needs of each patient. Adequately documents findings. Is proficient in the use and interpretation of standard ophthalmic equipment.

These include but are not limited to retinoscopy, subjective refraction, lensometry, visual fields, mobility and pupil testing, slit lamp examination, direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy, gonioscopy, fundus contact lens, tear function testing, Amsler grid, confrontation fields, etc.

Accurately interprets data from clinical exam. Makes sound clinical diagnoses. Takes appropriate actions(s) to take care of patients chief complaint(s) and ensure ocular health and visual needs are met. Clearly documents impressions and clinical action plan in the chart including referrals to other providers, long term medical management and/or optical and therapeutic prescriptions dispensed.

Uses tests and procedures as described above designed to detect and appropriately manager disorders common to the elderly such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

Actively communicates with optical, ophthalmology, support staff and fellow OD teams to optimize quality and clinical care and service to patients. Teams with optical staff and ophthalmologists to ensure most timely and convenient service given to patient when their services are needed.

Attends and contributes to staff meetings to keep up with events and policy changes. Identifies and reports system problems that result in waste and poor services; identifies possible solutions.

Maintains all licensing and job requirements (CE, CPR, safety training, PPD).

Dictates/writes referral and information letters to other providers or agencies, as appropriate, or otherwise communicates with parents, teachers or other providers as appropriate. Performs other related duties such as completing school forms, DMV, FAA and other like documents.

Supervisory Responsibilities: N/A

Competencies

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

Analytical -

Synthesizes complex or diverse information; collects and evaluates data; uses critical thinking and experience to complement data.

Problem Solving -

Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem solving situations; uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.

Technical Skills - Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; pursues training and development opportunities; strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; shares expertise with others.

Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; maintains confidentiality; listens to others without interrupting; keeps emotions under control; remains open to others ideas and tries new things.

Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; listens and gets clarification; responds well to questions; demonstrates group presentation skills; participates in meetings.

Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; edits work for spelling and grammar; varies writing style to meet needs; presents numerical data effectively reads and interprets written information.

Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to others views; gives and welcomes feedback; contributes to building a positive team spirit; puts success of team above own interests; builds morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; supports everyones efforts to succeed. Delegation - Delegates work assignments; matches the responsibility to the person; gives authority to work independently; sets expectations and monitors delegated activities; provides feedback.

Leadership - Exhibits confidence in self and others; inspires and motivates others to perform well; effectively influences actions and opinions of others; accepts feedback from others.

Quality Management - Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness.

Cost Consciousness - Looks for opportunities to improve cost containment efforts.

Diversity - Knowledgeable of EEO policy; shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences and persons with physical disabilities; educates others on the value of diversity; promotes a harassment-free environment.

Organizational Support - Follows policies and procedures; supports organizations goals and values; supports affirmative action and respects diversity

Basic Qualifications

• Experience
• N/A

Education

OD degree from an accredited School of Optometry. 1 year desired but not required.

• License, Certification, Registration
• Optometrist License (California) required at hire

Additional Requirements

Therapeutic Pharmaceutical Agents (T.P.A.) required for external employees hired after November 2009 (TPA is not required for internal applicants).

Preferred Qualifications

Graduate of an accredited school of Optometry. Certification: Therapeutic Pharmaceutical Agents (TPA). Meets all of the specifications of staff Optometrist. Work and coordinate concerns in a designated location. Direct and oversee daily operations and report to the local Chief of Optometry or exempt designee. Must be willing to work in a Labor Management Partnership environment.

• Must have a Natl Provider Identifier (NPI), or obtain an NPI, prior to employment start date.
• Also refer to Position Specifications outlined in the appropriate collective bargaining agreement.