COA (IJCAHPO) - Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

The Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) is a professional certification for individuals who assist ophthalmologists by performing ophthalmic clinical duties. The certification is offered by the International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (IJCAHPO) and is recognized as a standard of qualification in the field.

Completion Time: 3 hours

Cost: $300, 1st Retest $250, 2nd Retest $150

Exam Format

The COA exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering areas such as basic science, clinical principles and procedures, ophthalmic patient services and education, and administrative aspects.

The exam is taken in person at a Pearson VUE examination facility.

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Completion of an accredited ophthalmic assistant program or work experience in the field under the supervision of an ophthalmologist.

• Successful completion of the COA examination.

Certification Process

• Submit an application to a certifying organization like JCAHPO.

• Pass the COA certification examination, which assesses the basic knowledge and skills required for a competent ophthalmic assistant.

• A minimum score of 72 is required to obtain your JCAHPO COA certification.

COA certification requires renewal every 3 years. Candidates may renew their credential by either:

• Completing 18 hours of continuing education, or

• Renewal by Examination: Candidates may renew by retaking the COA exam and paying the exam fee. Certification must remain active at the time of renewal by examination.

Fees

• Recertification application: $125

• Late fee (if applicable): $85

• If renewing by examination, candidates must pay the applicable exam fee.

Continuing education for COAs may include topics related to eye care, new ophthalmic technologies, patient care, and administrative skills.

More details can be found on the IJCHAPO website.

For specific information regarding the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant certification, including eligibility criteria, examination details, approved educational programs, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with organizations such as the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO). JCAHPO provides comprehensive resources and standards for ophthalmic medical personnel.

Career Opportunities

Certified Ophthalmic Assistants work in various settings, including ophthalmologists’ offices, eye clinics, and hospitals.

Duties may include conducting basic vision tests, assisting with ophthalmic procedures, maintaining ophthalmic instruments, and providing patient education.

The IJCAHPO also offers the following certifications:

• Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT)

• Certified Diagnostic Ophthalmic Sonographer (CDOS)

• Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT)

• Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA)

• Ophthalmic Scribe Certification (OSC)

• Registered Ophthalmic Ultrasound Biometrist (ROUB)