COMT (IJCAHPO) - Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist

The Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) certification, offered by the International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (IJCAHPO), is a professional credential for advanced-level ophthalmic medical personnel. This certification is designed for individuals who have expanded their skills beyond the ophthalmic technician level to include more complex and advanced clinical tasks.

Completion Time: The three components of the COMT certification process include a 3-hour multiple-choice exam, a 2-hour skill evaluation exam and a 1-hour performance exam.

Cost: $340, 1st retest $290, 2nd retest $150

Exam Format

The computer-based COMT exam consists of 190 multiple-choice questions covering advanced knowledge and skills in ophthalmic technology.

Topics may include advanced clinical procedures, diagnostic testing, ophthalmic surgical assistance, and patient education.

For initial COMT certification, IJCAHPO requires successful completion of the multiple-choice examination, COT Skill Evaluation and COMT Performance Test.

Examinations are conducted in person at a Pearson VUE test center.

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent.

• Completion of an accredited ophthalmic medical technologist program or a combination of work experience and education in the field.

• Previous certification as an Ophthalmic Technician (COT) is often required.

• Successful completion of the COMT examination.

Certification Process

• Submit an application to IJCAHPO, demonstrating eligibility through education and clinical experience.

• Pass the COMT certification examination.

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

• Completing 36 hours of continuing education, or

• Renewal by Examination: Candidates may renew by retaking the COMT multiple-choice 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 COMTs may include advanced clinical skills, new technologies in eye care, management skills, and updates in ophthalmic knowledge.

More details can be found on the IJCHAPO website.

For specific information regarding the Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist certification, including detailed application procedures, examination content, and renewal requirements, 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 medical personnel at various levels of certification.

Career Opportunities

Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologists work in a variety of settings including ophthalmology clinics, hospitals and research facilities.

They perform advanced ophthalmic procedures, manage ophthalmic imaging and diagnostic equipment, and may assist in supervising or training other ophthalmic staff.

The IJCAHPO also offers the following certifications:

• Certified Diagnostic Ophthalmic Sonographer (CDOS)

• Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT)

• Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)

• Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA)

• Ophthalmic Scribe Certification (OSC)

• Registered Ophthalmic Ultrasound Biometrist (ROUB)