So, you’re interested in the field of eye care, but want to know what steps to take to become a certified ophthalmic medical technician (OMT). Well, “look” no further! We have mapped out each step of the way on how you can become one. “See” below.
- Obtain your high school diploma or GED. Before applying to the program, you will need to have earned your high school diploma or equivalent. Pima Medical Institute offers a partnership with Penn Foster for high school completion.
- Attend a CAAHEP-accredited ophthalmic medical technician program. Pima Medical’s OMT program, offered at our Denver campus, is accredited by the International Council of Accreditation for Allied Ophthalmic Education Programs and takes approximately 20 months to complete.
- Complete your clinical hours at the end of the program. You must finish 640 hours at an externship site in order to graduate from the program at Pima Medical. This experience is crucial as you gain hands-on experience with actual patients to prepare you for your career.
- Earn your certification. Once you have graduated, you must pass the certifying exam administered by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO). We do provide national certification exam preparation during the program.
- Pursue additional certifications. Graduates are also able to sit for the ophthalmic photography, ultrasound, low vision and surgical assisting certifications and will be prepared for them based on the curriculum and hands-on training they will receive at Pima Medical.
- Apply for jobs. Now that you are qualified to begin your career as an ophthalmic medical technician, it’s time to start working in your field. Often times, our OMT graduates get hired at their externship sites. If not, our career services team is ready to assist with job placement.
Are you ready to learn about eyes, lasers and technology? Our Ophthalmic Medical Technician program will teach you about all three and you can begin working in the field in as little as 20 months. Take that step toward your future in vision care today.
