The Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) is the entry level core designation designed to start eye care professionals on the path to success. The COA designation confirms an assistant’s knowledge in specific content areas.

The IJCAHPO certification process is examination-based. Examinations are based on research conducted every five years to determine the typical tasks performed by Allied Ophthalmic Personnel (AOP). These tasks are grouped into categories, and the examinations are designed to include questions pertaining to each category.

TIMELINE

Certification applications must be received within the allotted time frame in each eligibility pathway. Application for retest must be received within 12 months of initial examination.

PRACTICE EXAMINATION

Candidates who meet one of three education and work experience categories are eligible to sit for the COA Practice Examination for a fee. If the candidate passes the examination, they must pay an additional fee to obtain the COA certificate within 30 days of receiving their official practice examination results from IJCAHPO. The practice examination will not be considered a formal attempt unless a passing score has been achieved. If a passing score is not achieved, there are no refunds and candidates will be required to retest with the initial COA examination fee within 12 months of the practice examination date.

The duties of a COA may also include:

• Obtaining and updating the medical records of patients and gathering any other patient information that is necessary to make a full diagnosis

• Performing preliminary eye function examinations, like refraction, which is an eye exam by which an ophthalmic professional determines whether a patient needs prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses

• Interpreting medical photography, including ophthalmic imaging, photography and videography, to properly diagnose any eye-related diseases or recognize other abnormalities in the eye.

• Administering eye drops to patients’ eyes before examinations

• Assisting with procedures, such as LASIK and other eye surgeries

• Prepping the procedure room with the correct tools and performing pre-surgery exams and pain management treatments

• Providing patient education, including setting up regular appointments and informing them about the medication they will receive, the procedure they will undergo or how to properly use eyeglasses or contact lenses

• Completing administrative duties, such as answering phones, scheduling appointments and filling out billing and insurance paperwork, often electronically