Paraoptometric Resources and Certification Information
Paraoptometrics are allied health professionals who assist doctors of optometry in providing their highest level of eye and vision care to the public. There is a great distinction between ophthalmic technicians or assistants and paraoptometrics. Paraoptometrics are exclusively trained to assist doctors of optometry which includes opticians, contact lens professions and optical assistants.
The NJSOP celebrates paraoptometric teams, our valuable allied health professionals who assist doctors of optometry in providing their highest level of vision care to patients. Front office procedures, chair-side assistance, pre-testing, contact lens instruction, frame styling and fitting, billing/coding, office management and vision therapy are just a few of the many duties paraoptometrics perform while working directly with an optometric physician.
Learn more about paraoptometrics
- What is a Paraoptometric?
- AOA Education Center
- AOA Optometric Surgical Assisting for the Paraoptometric Technician - Workshop
- AOA Para Surgical Assisting Program Overview (Micro-Credential)
AOA Certification
Paraoptometric certification is a program developed by a respected panel of American Optometric Association (AOA) certified paraoptometrics and doctors of optometry, created to encourage continuing education and knowledge as the field of optometric assisting grows.
Become a member of the AOA Paraoptometric Section
Paraoptometric staff who work for AOA member doctors can join AOA's Education Center as an AOA associate member. This is a free member benefit for all of your para staff members.
This membership allows Para staff access to all paraotpometric member benefits and services. Again, this program comes at no cost to the paraoptometric and no cost to the AOA member doctor. Membership is renewed automatically every year, as long as the para continues to work with the AOA doctor.
Become a paraoptometric member
If you have questions, please reach out to our NJSOP Paraoptometric leaders Dr. Maria Richman or Mrs. Erlinda Rodriguez, CPO.
The NJSOP is thrilled to share that Mrs. Rodriguez was a 2023 winner of the AOA Paraoptometric Lifetime Achievement Award!
The NJSOP is fortunate to possess a membership that passionately advocates for paraoptometric education, actively participates in paraoptometric member recruitment, and provides valuable paraoptometric resources here in New Jersey!
Application for the Mintz Scholarship open through January 15th, 2025
For over 50 years, the Dr. Leslie Mintz Scholarship Foundation has continued to recognize ongoing exceptional talent and support future leaders in optometry.
Join Us for the October 21, 2024 7-8pm EST Student Zoom
Discover why some ODs find private practice in New Jersey rewarding. All optometry students welcome!