Coa

[Mizikal]

So I have been playing around with the idea of becoming a c.o.a , not that I am looking to change jobs or anything but I feel that just by studying it I might better understand what the techs and Dr's I work with are talking about and I always like expanding my horizon and making myself better. But where to start? Is becoming a certified ophthalmic assistant something I can study for or do I need on the job training for?

I know I should just ask the techs I work with but they are always so busy and I don't want my employer to know I am interested.

[jmainwar]

Look at http://www.opsweb.org/, I had a lot of fun behind the camera with the technical and personal aspects of it. Learned a LOT and I didn't find it as routine as the tech work. Really helped me to visualize how a persons vision is affected by specific pathology.

[Wes]

Talk to Harry Chilinguerian. He had/has the COA certification, is very smart, and tends to retain information both in his head and digitally.

[carriew]

Check out the JCAHPO website there are 3 ways to become eligible for the exam, in most cases you have to work under an OMD for 1 year. I took The COA many years ago and the test content has changed since I took it- but for the most part if you study well the test is not to bad. Having doing the job certainly helps though. I am currently a COT and hopefully a COMT in the future (I will finally be eligible next year). Good luck, and kudos for wanting to understand your chosen career better!

[ldyflsh]

I started out as a COA before getting my Optician's license. I found it gave me the ability to trouble shoot medical vs glasses problems. It was a BIG plus on my resumes.

[opty4062]

I'm thinking along the same lines myself at the moment. My docs, though are ODs and not OMDs. Trying to figure out if I can still get it done.

[sharonm516]

I am a COT (Certified Ophthalmic Technician) with my ABO. You need to be sponsored by an ophthalmologist to sit for the exam. Good Luck!