Florida Department of Education
Curriculum Framework 
Program Title:	Optometric Assisting 
Program Type:	Career Preparatory
Career Cluster:	Health Science

Career Certificate Program	
Program Number	H170705	
CIP Number	0351180203	
Grade Level	30, 31	
Standard Length	1080 hours	
Teacher Certification	Refer to the Program Structure section.	
CTSO	HOSA	
SOC Codes (all applicable) 	Assignment pending.	
CTE Program Resources 	http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml 	
Basic Skills Level	Computation (Mathematics):	9	Communications (Reading and Language Arts):	11	

Purpose

This program offers a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in the Health Science career cluster; provides technical skill proficiency, and includes competency-based applied learning that contributes to the academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, technical skills, and occupation-specific skills, and knowledge of all aspects of Health Science career cluster. 

The purpose of this program is to prepare students for employment as optometric assistants or Opticians, Dispensing.

The content includes but is not limited to basic instruction in anatomy and physiology, CPR, Heartsaver, office practices and dispensing of visual devices.  Because optometrists now deal with certain drugs, students need knowledge of diagnostic and therapeutic drugs under supervision.  

Additional Information relevant to this Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is provided at the end of this document.

Program Structure

This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting of 2 occupational completion points.

This program is comprised of courses which have been assigned course numbers in the SCNS (Statewide Course Numbering System) in accordance with Section 1007.24 (1), F.S.  Career and Technical credit shall be awarded to the student on a transcript in accordance with Section 1001.44(3) (b), F.S.

To teach the courses listed below, instructors must hold at least one of the teacher certifications indicated for that course.

The following table illustrates the postsecondary program structure:

OCP	Course Number	Course Title	Teacher Certification	Length	SOC Code	
A	OPT0720	Foundations of Vision Care 	TEC OPTICS 7G 
OPTOM ASST 7 G	102 hours		
B	OPT0721	Optometric Assistant 1		336 hours		
	OPT0722	Optometric Assistant 2		642 hours		

Common Career Technical Core – Career Ready Practices

Career Ready Practices describe the career-ready skills that educators should seek to develop in their students.  These practices are not exclusive to a Career Pathway, program of study, discipline or level of education.  Career Ready Practices should be taught and reinforced in all career exploration and preparation programs with increasingly higher levels of complexity and expectation as a student advances through a program of study. 

1. Act as a responsible and contributing citizen and employee. 

2. Apply appropriate academic and technical skills. 

3. Attend to personal health and financial well-being. 

4. Communicate clearly, effectively and with reason. 

5. Consider the environmental, social and economic impacts of decisions. 

6. Demonstrate creativity and innovation. 

7. Employ valid and reliable research strategies. 

8. Utilize critical thinking to make sense of problems and persevere in solving them. 

9. Model integrity, ethical leadership and effective management. 

10. Plan education and career path aligned to personal goals. 

11. Use technology to enhance productivity. 

12. Work productively in teams while using cultural/global competence. 

Standards

After successfully completing this program, the student will be able to perform the following:

01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the healthcare delivery system. 
02.0	Demonstrate legal and ethical responsibilities. 
03.0	Demonstrate the ability to communicate and use interpersonal skills effectively. 
04.0	Demonstrate an understanding of health and vision concepts. 
05.0	Demonstrate understanding of a prescription. 
06.0	Recognize and practice workplace safety and security procedures. 
07.0	Recognize and practice infection control procedures. 
08.0	Recognize and respond to emergency situations.  
09.0	Demonstrate an understanding of information technology applications in the vision care office. 
10.0	Demonstrate employability skills. 
11.0	Demonstrate knowledge of business management techniques. 
12.0	Perform delivery of optical devices.
13.0	Demonstrate knowledge of basic ocular anatomy and physiology. 
14.0	Report and record patient information. 
15.0	Perform and assist in procedures used in visual testing.
16.0	Perform special procedures.
17.0	Demonstrate knowledge of contact lenses. 

Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards

Program Title:	Optometric Assisting 
Career Certificate Program Number:	H170705

Course Number: OPT0720
Occupational Completion Point: A 
Foundations of Vision Care – 102 Hours	
01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the healthcare delivery system. – The student will be able to:	
01.01	Describe how various social conditions that affect healthcare delivery. 	
01.02	Recognize victims of various types of abuse and neglect including domestic violence. 	
01.03	Identify resources to assist victims of abuse and neglect including domestic violence. 	
02.0	Demonstrate legal and ethical responsibilities. – The student will be able to:	
02.01	Differentiate between laws and a code of ethics.	
02.02	Describe the composition and scope of practice of the vision care team including OD, MD, COA, LDO, and scribe.	
02.03	Discuss the American Optometric Association (AOA) Paraoptometric Code of Ethics. 	
02.04	Demonstrate knowledge of both doctors’ and patients’ rights and responsibilities.	
02.05	Identify qualities and procedures for accurate and legal documentation and record keeping. 	
02.06	Identify standards of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).	
02.07	Describe the criteria and procedure for properly identifying patients.	
02.08	Describe informed consent including implied, verbal, written and need for capacity.	
02.09	Explain practices that could result in malpractice, liability, negligence, abandonment, false imprisonment, and fraud. 	
03.0	Demonstrate the ability to communicate and use interpersonal skills effectively. – The student will be able to:	
03.01	Identify characteristics of successful and unsuccessful communication including communication styles and barriers.	
03.02	Demonstrate basic speaking, active listening skills, and non-verbal skills.	
03.03	Compose written communication using correct spelling, grammar, and formatting. 	
03.04	Recognize the importance of courtesy and respect for patients and other healthcare workers including diverse age, cultural, economic, ethnic, and religious groups.	
04.0	Demonstrate an understanding of health and vision concepts. – The student will be able to:	
04.01	Identify the major body systems.	
04.02	Identify the medical conditions that affect eye health.	
04.03	Discuss the adverse effects of alcohol, tobacco, and drug use (legal and illegal) as related to eye health	
04.04	Discuss the adverse effects of poor nutrition and diet as related to eye health.	
04.05	Identify the difference between a vision screening and a comprehensive eye exam.	
04.06	Describe the importance of a comprehensive eye exam. 	
04.07	Demonstrate introductory knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the eye and the vision system.	
04.08	Recognize the difference between a chief complaint and a HPI (History of Present Illness).	
04.09	Identify signs and symptoms that may be sight-threatening to patients. 	
04.10	Identify psychological reactions to vision loss including defense mechanisms and grief.  	
04.11	Demonstrate knowledge of prefixes, suffixes, and root words in medical and vision terminology.	
05.0	Demonstrate understanding of a prescription. - The student will be able to : 	
05.01	Demonstrate knowledge of introduction to refractive error.	
05.02	Identify the reasons contact lenses and eyewear are prescribed and worn.	
05.03	Identify legal requirements of a prescription.	
06.0	Recognize and practice workplace safety and security procedures. – The student will be able to:	
06.01	Utilize Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety procedures to identify safe and unsafe working conditions. 	
06.02	Describe the importance of securing medical supplies and using user manuals to properly operate equipment.	
06.03	Identify and describe methods in medical error reduction and prevention in the various healthcare settings. 	
06.04	Demonstrate proper body mechanics to prevent personal injury.	
06.05	Demonstrate fire, safety, disaster and evacuations procedures. 	
07.0	Recognize and practice infection control procedures. – The student will be able to:	
07.01	Define principles of infection control including standard and transmission-based precautions.	
07.02	Demonstrate knowledge of medical asepsis and practice procedures such as hand-washing and using PPE to break the chain of infection. 	
07.03	Describe how to dispose correctly of biohazardous materials and sharps according to appropriate government guidelines such as OSHA. 	
07.04	Demonstrate knowledge of blood borne diseases, including HIV/AIDS. 	
08.0	Recognize and respond to emergency situations. – The student will be able to:	
08.01	Record vital signs.	
08.02	Obtain and maintain training or certification on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED), and foreign body airway obstruction (FBAO). 	
09.0	Demonstrate an understanding of information technology applications in the vision care office. – The student will be able to:	
09.01	Describe electronic medical technology applications in vision care and how it can be used in vison care. 	
09.02	Demonstrate basic computer skills. 	
09.03	Type 25 words per minute. 	
09.04	Describe office procedures for faxing and copying options.	
10.0	Demonstrate employability skills. – The student will be able to:	
10.01	Identify personal traits or attitudes desirable in a member of the healthcare team. 	
10.02	Identify appropriate professional standards of healthcare workers. 	
10.03	Identify characteristics of effective teams and leaders	
10.04	Recognize factors and situations that may lead to conflict, and methods for solutions	
10.05	Discuss laws governing harassment, labor, and employment	
10.06	Identify documents that may be required when applying for a job. 	
10.07	Write an appropriate resume and cover letter. 	
10.08	Conduct a job search. 	
10.09	Complete a job application form correctly.	
10.10	Examine possible certifications or licensing in the vision career field for career advancement. 	

Course Number: OPT0721
Occupational Completion Point: B
Optometric Assistant 1 –336 Hours	
11.0	Demonstrate knowledge of business management techniques. -- The student will be able to:	
11.01	Classify patients for scheduling urgency based on triage concepts.	
11.02	Describe laws, regulations, and procedures for maintaining patient files.	
11.03	Identify common methods of payment for vision and healthcare services. 	
11.04	Demonstrate knowledge of criteria and appropriate use of vision vs health insurance.	
11.05	Demonstrate knowledge of common insurance terminology.	
11.06	Describe the various methods of authorizing insurance.	
11.07	Describe the importance of making accurate and timely insurance claims.	
11.08	Demonstrate the knowledge of how CPT, ICD, and HCPCS codes are utilized.	
11.09	Demonstrate an understanding of billing and collection procedures for current and overdue accounts.	
11.10	Practice office supply control.	
12.0	Perform delivery of optical devices. -- The student will be able to:	
12.01	Demonstrate knowledge of lens physics including:
12.01.1	Optical center
12.01.2	Refraction
12.01.3	Reflection
12.01.4	Dispersion
12.01.5	Index of refraction 
12.01.6	Abbe value 
12.01.7	Specific gravity
12.01.8	Prism 	
12.02	Describe characteristics of convex, concave, and toric lenses and use that knowledge to identify these lenses.	
12.03	Describe various lens designs, materials, and options.	
12.04	Demonstrate basic knowledge of how lenses are made. 	
12.05	Neutralize the different types of lenses. 	
12.06	Perform optical math to interpret prescriptions including:
12.06.1	Transposition
12.06.2	True reading power
12.06.3	Intermediate power
12.06.4	Spherical equivalent
12.06.5	Optical cross
12.06.6	Nominal lens formula
12.06.7	Focal length
12.06.8	Combining and splitting prism	
12.07	Demonstrate knowledge of frame material and style selections.	
12.08	Interpret frame markings and take manual frame measurements using boxing system.	
12.09	Identify patient information needed to make needs-based frame and lens recommendations. 	
12.10	Assist patients with frame and lens selection.	
12.11	Take patient pupillary distance and vertical measurements for appropriate lens designs.	
12.12	Identify the information needed on order form for ordering spectacle lenses and frames.	
12.13	Adjust and repair spectacles. 	
12.14	Verify lenses according to ANSI standards, under proper supervision. 	
12.15	Dispense spectacles under the proper supervision and within the optometric assistant scope of practice.  	
	
Course Number: OPT0722
Occupational Completion Point: B
Optometric Assistant 2 – 642 Hours	
13.0	Demonstrate knowledge of basic ocular anatomy and physiology. -- The student will be able to:	
13.01	Demonstrate knowledge of ocular anatomy.	
13.02	Demonstrate knowledge of ocular physiology.	
13.03	Demonstrate knowledge of pathological and functional disorders of the eye.	
13.04	Demonstrate the knowledge of injuries of the eye and recognize sight-threatening emergencies.	
13.05	Correlate general health as it relates to ocular health. 	
14.0	Report and record patient information. -- The student will be able to:	
14.01	Properly identify patients, to avoid medical errors. 	
14.02	Identify data to be included in a patient history and additional forms that comprise a patient record.	
14.03	Take and record patient histories from patient, parent, and/or caregiver.	
14.04	Use appropriate medical and vision care terminology and abbreviations. 	
14.05	Communicate knowledge to patient, family and/or caregiver to assist with the plan of care, as directed by the doctor. 	
15.0	Perform and assist in procedures used in visual testing. -- The student will be able to:	
15.01	Measure and record visual acuity.	
15.02	Demonstrate knowledge of amplitude of accommodation.	
15.03	Measure and record color vision.	
15.04	Measure and record stereo acuity.	
15.05	Measure and record pupil evaluation. 	
15.06	Evaluate Ocular motility including:
15.06.1	Extra Ocular Motility 
15.06.2	Convergence 
15.06.3	Cover testing
15.06.4	Worth 4 dot	
15.07	Perform eye drop instillation. 	
15.08	Identify instruments and tools used in comprehensive eye exams.	
15.09	Describe the importance of equipment maintenance and proper disinfection.	
16.0	Perform special procedures. -- The student will be able to:	
16.01	Measure and record keratometry.	
16.02	Describe various methods of and the importance of retinal imaging. 	
16.03	Measure visual field with confrontation and Amsler testing; Identify Humphreys and Goldmann visual field testing procedures.	
16.04	Demonstrate knowledge of slit lamp biomicroscope procedures.	
16.05	Demonstrate knowledge of techniques to evaluate tear film.	
16.06	Identify various methods for recording intraocular pressure; measure and record intraocular pressure.	
16.07	Demonstrate knowledge of refraction techniques.	
16.08	Identify types of low vision aids and resources available for those that need it.	
16.09	Demonstrate knowledge of vision therapy.	
16.10	Demonstrate knowledge of diagnostic and therapeutic drugs including knowledge of the color coding system for topical ocular medications.	
17.0	Demonstrate knowledge of contact lenses. -- The student will be able to:	
17.01	Assist patients with contact lens procedures including:
17.01.1	Insertion and removal 
17.01.2	Cleaning and care 
17.01.3	Compliance of soft and RGP lenses	
17.02	Demonstrate knowledge of the fitting process for both rigid and soft contact lenses. 	
17.03	Demonstrate knowledge of the ordering process for contact lenses including the Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act.	
17.04	Identify contact lens options; manufacturer, brand, design, power, bc, diam, wearing schedule, materials.	
17.05	Demonstrate knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of various contact lens materials and designs. 	
17.06	Identify instruments used to verify contact lenses.	

Additional Information

Laboratory Activities

Laboratory investigations that include scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, emerging technologies, tools and equipment, as well as, experimental, quality, and safety procedures are an integral part of this career and technical program/course. Laboratory investigations benefit all students by developing an understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills required to manage, operate, calibrate and troubleshoot equipment/tools used to make observations. Students understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data. Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students.

Special Notes

This program meets the Department of Health’s education requirements for HIV/AIDS, Domestic Violence and Prevention of Medical Errors.  Although not a requirement for initial licensure, it is a requirement for renewal, therefore the instructor may provide a certificate for renewal purposes to the student verifying these requirements have been met.

If students in this program are seeking a licensure, certificate or registration through the Department of Health, please refer to 456.0635, F.S. for more information on disqualification for a license, certificate, or registration through the Department of Health. 

Students are prepared to assist in performing tests to determine defects in vision, preparing and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses, and administering corrective eye exercises and other treatments under the supervision of a person licensed under Florida Statutes 458, 459, 463 or 484.

This program focuses on broad, transferable skills and stresses understanding and demonstration of the following elements of the health care industry; planning, management, finance, technical and production skills, underlying principles of technology, labor issues, community issues and health, safety, and environmental issues.

Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO)

HOSA: Future Health Professionals is the intercurricular career and technical student organization providing leadership training and reinforcing specific career and technical skills. Career and Technical Student Organizations provide activities for students as an integral part of the instruction offered. 

Cooperative Training – OJT

On-the-job training is appropriate but not required for this program.  Whenever offered, the rules, guidelines, and requirements specified in the OJT framework apply. 

Basic Skills 

In Career Certificate programs offered for 450 hours or more, in accordance with Rule 6A-10.040, F.A.C., the minimum basic skills grade levels required for postsecondary adult career and technical students to complete this program are:  Computation (Mathematics) and Communications (Reading and Language Arts). These grade level numbers correspond to a grade equivalent score obtained on a state designated basic skills examination.  

Adult students with disabilities, as defined in Section 1004.02, Florida Statutes, may be exempted from meeting the Basic Skills requirements (Rule 6A-10.040).  Students served in exceptional student education (except gifted) as defined in s. 1003.01, F.S., may also be exempted from meeting the Basic Skills requirement.  Each school district and Florida College System Institution must adopt a policy addressing procedures for exempting eligible students with disabilities from the Basic Skills requirement as permitted in Section 1004.91, F.S.

Accommodations

Federal and state legislation requires the provision of accommodations for students with disabilities to meet individual needs and ensure equal access. Postsecondary students with disabilities must self-identify, present documentation, request accommodations if needed, and develop a plan with their counselor and/or instructors. Accommodations received in postsecondary education may differ from those received in secondary education. Accommodations change the way the student is instructed. Students with disabilities may need accommodations in such areas as instructional methods and materials, assignments and assessments, time demands and schedules, learning environment, assistive technology and special communication systems. Documentation of the accommodations requested and provided should be maintained in a confidential file.

Note: postsecondary curriculum and regulated secondary programs cannot be modified.

Additional Resources

For additional information regarding articulation agreements, Bright Futures Scholarships, Fine Arts/Practical Arts Credit and Equivalent Mathematics and Equally Rigorous Science Courses please refer to:
http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml