OSA (IJCAHPO) - Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting

  • Cost: $145
  • Usually renews every 3 years

COURSE FORMAT

In Person

About

The Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA) certification, offered by 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

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.

Cost: $145

Course Format

Exam Format

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

In Person

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

Certification

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.

Renewal

OSA certification usually requires renewal every 3 years.

Renewal involves completing continuing education credits in ophthalmic surgical assisting or related fields and paying a recertification fee.

Continuing Education

Continuing education for OSA certification may include advances in ophthalmic surgical techniques, infection control, patient safety, and updates in ophthalmology.

Other Resources

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.

Related Certifications

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)

Was this page helpful?

Frequently asked questions

Can I earn a IJCAHPO Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA) online?

No you can't earn a IJCAHPO Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA) online.

What organization offers the Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA)?

The International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (IJCAHPO) offers the Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA).

How often do I need to renew my IJCAHPO Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA)?

You must renew your IJCAHPO Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA) every three years.

What are the job duties of a Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA)?

The job duties of a Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA) include assisting ophthalmologists in surgeries, handling surgical instruments, preparing patients for procedures and ensuring compliance with surgical standards.

What other certifications does the IJCAHPO offer besides the Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA)?

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)