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CAREER GUIDANCE

Most individuals are introduced to the field of paraoptometry through informal training provided by their employer in an optometric setting. As many paraoptometrics gain more experience, they may advance from an entry-level position to one more focused on optometric assisting. Pursuing more formalized training to supplement skills gained from the workplace is one way to advance to a technician level, or to attain professional recognition. Programs available include certification, self-study courses, continuing education seminars, and educational curriculum through vocational and/or technical schools. While there is no single career “track” identified for paraoptometry, experienced paraoptometrics have indicated that their career advancement has been based upon of a combination of these opportunities.

I. ENTRY LEVEL: On-the-job training
On-the-job training by employers is the most common approach for paraoptometrics to enter the profession and develop their skills. A paraoptometric can be hired for a specific job, or begin at an entry-level position, such as a receptionist or an optometric assistant. Paraoptometrics can progress to more specialized roles, such as becoming a contact lens technician, with the addition of certification and/or formalized educational programs to supplement the training they receive on the job.

II. CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS
Certification programs offer an opportunity for paraoptometrics to distinguish themselves in their level of acquired skills, knowledge, core competency and performance achieved in an optometric setting. Typically, these programs are geared to individuals who have already gained some on-the-job experience. Pursuing certification further identifies a commitment to career advancement and professional recognition.

American Optometric Association Self-Study Course
The Self Study Course for Paraoptometric Certification is recommended as a reference material both for self-education, as well as to prepare for your examination for the AOA Paraoptometric Certification. The textbook is available by contacting the American Optometric Association, and also available for loan through the CPS Resource Library.

American Optometric Association Paraoptometric Certification
Professional Credentials:

• Certified Paraoptometric (CPO)
• Certified Paraoptometric Assistant (CPOA)
• Certified Paraoptometric Technician (CPOT)

Certification of Ophthalmic Dispensers
Professional Credentials:

• American Board of Opticianry (ABO): certifies opticians — those who dispense and work with spectacles.
• National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE): certifies those ophthalmic dispensers who fit and work with contact lenses.
  

III. TECHNICAL AND/OR VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS
To supplement skills gained in an optometric setting, individuals may seek more formalized training to advance to a technician level. However, in California, there are few educational programs available, and they vary with institutions.

Optical Dispensing Program Offered by

American Career College
ACC offers a optical dispensing program and has campuses in Los Angeles, Orange County and Inland Empire. Graduates of their program are qualified to work as dispensing opticians, ophthalmic lab technicians, contact lens fitters, eye doctor's assistants, manufacturer's representatives, optical office managers and more.

Online Optometric Technician Program offered by

the Madison Area Technical College
MATC offers a technical diploma through an online program. The program is taught completely online and offers a technical diploma for an Optometric Technician. This program is designed for individuals employed in an eye care setting.

Other Educational Programs
Try an on-line search for healthcare colleges at www.uscolleges.com to identify possible local institutions that may offer courses for optical technicians/assistants. Or visit the National Federation of Opticianry Schools website at www.nfos.org to search for schools or programs throughout the United States for opticians.

IV. PARAOPTOMETRIC CONTINUING EDUCATION
Regional or local seminars may be available in your area, organized by ophthalmic vendors, or by a local optometric or paraoptometric society. Paraoptometric continuing educational tracks are also offered by the California Optometric Association at its OptoWest and Fall Symposium conferences to meet the needs of professional staff who require education for renewing their certification.

V. ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND INFORMATION

• National Paraoptometric Survey conducted by the American Optometric Association
• Optometric Technician/Optometric Assistant, California Occupational Guide: www.calmis.cahwnet.gov/file/occguide/OPTASST.HTM; Labor Market Information, California Employment Development Department
• Registration with the California Medical Board “Do I need to be licensed as a Spectacle Lens Dispenser or Contact Lens Dispenser in California? FAQ”

** Please note that all links and listings on this page are provided only as resources and not endorsed by the California Paraoptometric Section.