Optician

Responsibilities:

• Prescription Interpretation: Analyzing the Optometrist’s findings to recommend the most suitable lens designs (e.g., Progressives, Bifocals, or specialized Myopia Management lenses).
• Technical Measurements: Taking critical "fitting" measurements that go beyond just PD, such as Vertex Distance, Pantoscopic Tilt, and Face Form Angle, especially for high-end digital or personalized lenses.
• Lens Selection: Advising patients on lens materials (e.g., 1.61 vs 1.74 index) based on their prescription strength to ensure the glasses are as thin and light as possible.
• Lens Edging & Glazing: Operating the edger to cut lenses and fit them into frames accurately.
• Quality Control (QC): Using a Lensmeter (Focimeter) to verify that the finished glasses match the exact prescription and axis before the patient is notified.
• Advanced Repairs: Handling technical frame repairs that go beyond the skills of a Sales Assistant, such as restringing rimless frames or replacing broken hinges.
• Fitting & Trials: Fitting standard soft contact lenses and conducting follow-up checks to ensure corneal health and comfort.
• Patient Training: Teaching new wearers the correct "I&R" (Insertion and Removal) techniques and emphasizing the importance of lens hygiene to prevent infections.
• Aftercare: Assessing the lens fit on the eye and identifying if a patient needs a change in base curve or material.
• Preliminary Exams: Assisting the Optometrist by performing initial tests such as Auto-Refraction, Tonometry (checking eye pressure), and sometimes Retinal Imaging or Fundus Photography.
• History Taking: Documenting a patient's visual history, current complaints, and lifestyle needs before they enter the consultation room.
• Technical Sales: Supporting Sales Assistants with complex cases where a patient has a high degree of astigmatism or prism requirements.
• Warranty Management: Liaising with lens suppliers regarding coating warranties or manufacturing defects.