Optometrist

SPECIFIC ACCOUNTABILITIES

The Optometrist:

• Establishes and delivers general services and specialized services such as paediatric optometry, provision of low-vision aids assessment and delivery, retinal photography, orthoptic assessment, complex refractions and management of keratoconus.
• Collaborates with the Specialist Medical Officer (Ophthalmology) and or Specialist Primary Care Physician II-Ophthalmology in clinic so as to enhance their clinical skills to commence shared care.
• Participates in shared care and operates glaucoma, diabetic and primary care clinics.
• Establishes and delivers intra-region vision screening programmes throughout the Authority in collaboration with the various Heads of Department and Ministry of Health when necessary.
• Conducts intra departmental audits and reports areas for improvement in the delivery of services.
• Collaborates with the Health Education Unit in promoting and educating patients on eye health and proper eye care techniques.
• Researches and reports on epidemiological trends.
• Cooperates with the relevant Heads of Department to ensure optimal patient services.
• Performs any other relate duties by the approved Authority.

KEY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of the principles, practices, methods, materials and equipment used in optometry.
• Ability to write reports of varying complexity.
• Strong communicative and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to persuade peers supervisors and subordinates to follow the desired courses of action.
• Sound understanding of the Institutional and Operational Framework in which the Authority operates.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees, patients and members of the public.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite

MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

• First Degree in Optometry from an accredited institution.
• Current registration with the Trinidad & Tobago Opticians Registration Council.
• A minimum of two (2) years’ experience.
• Clinical experience in hospital Optometry/Ophthalmology department would be an asset.
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training.

COMMUNICATION AND WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

Internal:

• Medical Director
• General Manager – Primary Health Care Services
• Manager-Hospital Administration
• Primary Care Physician II
• Specialist Medical Officer (Ophthalmology)
• Specialist Primary Care Physician II (Ophthalmology)
• Other support staff e.g. Nurses, Doctors, Clinical personnel

External:

• Similar professionals in other RHAs
• Ministry of Health