Program Overview

Program Overview

The Medical Technology in Ophthalmology program is accredited by the International Council of Accreditation (ICA). This integrated training program prepares graduates for a stimulating and enriching career as medical technologists in ophthalmology.

Program Highlights

• Small class size
• Integrated clinical learning environment at the Ottawa Hospital (OLH) and the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO)
• Personalized clinical supervision
• Exposure to tertiary care ophthalmology and patient care environment
• Teaching from world-renowned ophthalmologists and experienced technologists
• Participation of students in all educational and academic activities of residents
• Access to unique learning experiences such as cadaver dissection labs as part of the Resident Training Series
• Participation in two ophthalmology conferences per year
• 4th year students carry out clinical research and present their work during the annual research day alongside residents, medical fellows and graduate students

Program Details

Number of years in program

8

Number of students in our program

3

Number of institutional partners

Not specified

Responsibilities of a Medical Technologist in Ophthalmology

Medical technologists in ophthalmology work alongside ophthalmologists in private clinics, medical centers, hospitals, and university clinics. Their responsibilities include:

• Assist the ophthalmologist during eye surgeries and laser procedures
• Collect general and ophthalmic medical history of patients
• Perform specialized tests such as refractometry, ultrasound, fluorescein angiography or ocular motility tests to help ophthalmologists evaluate patients' vision
• Explain diagnostic tests to patients, record, interpret and resolve problems related to results
• Help ophthalmologists perform ophthalmic procedures and surgeries
• Prepare samples for culture and staining
• Administer topical or oral ophthalmic medications as directed by ophthalmologists
• Maintain ophthalmic instruments or equipment
• Mentor and supervise other members of the ophthalmic staff and perform various administrative tasks
• Participate in research activities
• Play a major role in training office staff, students and frequently help patients understand the nature of their illness and prescribed treatment