Virtual Ophthalmic Assistant

Cape Town, South Africa (Remote)

We are seeking an experienced Ophthalmic Assistant or Ophthalmic Technician to provide remote patient support and clinical administrative assistance to a busy ophthalmology practice.

This role combines ophthalmic knowledge with patient communication, telephone triage, prescription coordination, and clinical documentation. You will work closely with the in-office team to address patient concerns and support continuity of care across multiple practice locations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Answer ophthalmic technician calls, return patient voicemails, and follow up on outstanding patient requests.

  • Gather and document relevant information about eye symptoms, patient concerns, ocular history, and current medications.

  • Support telephone triage using practice-approved protocols, escalating urgent symptoms and clinical questions to the appropriate clinician.

  • Coordinate appointments based on patient needs, clinical direction, and triage protocols.

  • Process prescription and eye-drop refill requests, obtain required provider approvals, and coordinate with pharmacies.

  • Help resolve prescription access issues and clarify provider-approved medication instructions.

  • Reinforce clinician-provided instructions relating to eye-drop use, appointment preparation, and pre- and postoperative care.

  • Prepare FMLA and disability paperwork and draft patient letters for clinical review and approval.

  • Maintain accurate patient records, telephone notes, and follow-up tasks in the practice’s electronic medical record system.

  • Coordinate with providers, technicians, and administrative staff across the main practice and satellite locations.

  • Assist with training new team members on established workflows when required.

Required Experience and Skills

  • Previous experience as an Ophthalmic Assistant, Ophthalmic Technician, or in a comparable clinical eye care support role.

  • Working knowledge of ophthalmic terminology, common eye conditions, ocular medications, and ophthalmology workflows.

  • Experience communicating with patients about clinical concerns and recognizing issues that require prompt escalation.

  • Familiarity with prescription refill coordination, clinical documentation, and electronic medical records.

  • Strong spoken and written English, with a calm, empathetic, and professional telephone manner.

  • Excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage incoming calls alongside administrative responsibilities.

  • Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with an in-office clinical team.

  • Commitment to patient confidentiality and compliance with the practice’s privacy and security procedures.

  • Reliable internet, a private workspace, and availability during agreed US practice hours.

Other Requirements:

  • High-speed fiber internet (minimum 50–100 Mbps).
  • Own laptop/desktop with external monitor.
  • Stable backup power supply.
  • Quality headset with a built-in microphone.
  • Availability: Monday–Friday during U.S. time zones.

Scope of the Role

This is a remote clinical support position. Patient guidance, triage, and prescription processing must follow practice protocols and provider direction. The role does not involve independently diagnosing conditions, prescribing medication, or performing in-person examinations or diagnostic testing.

Ideal Candidate

You have practical eye care experience and can confidently communicate with patients using ophthalmic terminology. You understand when to follow established instructions and when to involve a clinician, and you take ownership of ensuring patient requests are documented, coordinated, and followed through.

Virtual Ophthalmic Assistant

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Virtual Ophthalmic Assistant

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