OSA (IJCAHPO) - Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting

The Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA) certification, offered by the International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (IJCAHPO), is designed for ophthalmic assistants who specialize in assisting ophthalmologists during surgical procedures. This certification signifies advanced knowledge and skills in surgical techniques, instrument handling, sterilization, and patient care in ophthalmic surgeries.

Completion Time: 1 hour

Cost: $145, Retest fee $95

Exam Format

The OSA exam includes 80 multiple-choice questions covering surgical procedures, instrumentation, sterilization, patient care, and safety in the operating room.

The computer-based exam is conducted at a Pearson VUE test center.

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• Current certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT), or Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) through IJCAHPO.

• Completion of an IJCAHPO-approved Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting course or equivalent training.

• Documented experience in assisting with ophthalmic surgeries.

Certification Process

• Complete the necessary training or education in ophthalmic surgical assisting.

• Submit an application for the OSA certification through IJCAHPO.

• Meet the eligibility criteria and pass the OSA certification examination. An unofficial pass/fail determination is provided at the conclusion of the exam.

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

• Renewal by Continuing Education

  • Option 1: Complete 30 surgical cases with no surgical CE credits required.

  • Option 2: Earn 10 surgical CE credits and complete 20 surgical cases.

• Renewal by Examination: Candidates may renew by retaking the COT 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 OSA certification may include advances in ophthalmic surgical techniques, infection control, patient safety, and updates in ophthalmology.

For specific information regarding Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting certification, including eligibility criteria, examination details, approved educational programs, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with the International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (IJCAHPO). IJCAHPO provides comprehensive resources and standards for ophthalmic professionals seeking to specialize in surgical assisting.

Career Opportunities

Ophthalmic Surgical Assistants work in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and ophthalmology clinics. They assist ophthalmologists in surgeries, handle surgical instruments, prepare patients for procedures, and ensure compliance with surgical standards.

The IJCAHPO also offers the following certifications:

• Certified Diagnostic Ophthalmic Sonographer (CDOS)

• Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT)

• Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT)

• Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)

• Ophthalmic Scribe Certification (OSC)

• Registered Ophthalmic Ultrasound Biometrist (ROUB)