Is any one a certified paraoptometric tech?

**Steph26** · 07-07-2006, 03:59 PM

I was just wandering if anyone is a certified paraoptometric technician? If so what was the test like and has it really benefited you? What can you tell me about this certification?

**mlm** · 07-08-2006, 12:37 AM

...but I'm planning for it. I'm a CPOA now. The test for that was way easier than I expected, but I had already taken the Certified Optometric Assistant exam (Canadian equivalent to CPOA) the year before so that really helped.

Since you're an optician already, you probably won't have any problems with the CPOT exam. Maybe brush up on your clinical skills for the practical exam. This page gives you all the information you'll need about the test:

http://www.aoa.org/x2887.xml

Do I think it's beneficial? I have a nice certificate on the wall that patients don't really notice. I didn't get a pay raise simply for having passed the test. Most of the information I studied doesn't get used on a daily basis. However, I feel much more confident in my skills and my knowledge. I took the test to challenge myself, and I'll be taking the CPOT exam for the same reason. More education is never a bad thing. :)

**William Walker** · 07-10-2006, 09:48 PM

There's actually been a few threads on that exact same question. Try a search, and if you don't find it, look under the posts from my profile - I know I've posted in some of those threads.

**mlm** · 07-10-2006, 10:10 PM

William,

I know you're working at Costco now, but are you considering taking the CPOT exam in the future? Just curious. :)

**William Walker** · 07-10-2006, 10:22 PM

I definitely am. I just feel it'd be silly to take the first to, and not take the highest level. Even if I don't use it in my daily routine. I think the Paraoptometric Board sets us up for that very well. Take a look at your certificates: The CPO has a bronze seal (third place), the CPOA has a silver seal (second place), so how could you not get the CPOT, and go for the gold!