IJCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Examination (COA)

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TheCOA exam is a computer-based multiple-choice certification test that evaluates foundational ophthalmic knowledge and practical skills needed by clinical ophthalmic assistants. It measures competency in patient care, eye anatomy, clinical procedures, pharmacology, ethics, and use of ophthalmic instruments. Passing the exam validates that a candidate meets the baseline professional standards required for an ophthalmic assistant.

• Format: Multiple-choice questions
• Duration: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours
• Passing Score: 72% or higher
• Eligibility: Candidates must meet specified education or experience requirements.
  
  

Exam Overview

The COA exam covers a wide range of ophthalmic content reflecting the typical duties of an ophthalmic assistant. Exam content areas include:

• History Taking and Documentation – Accurately collecting patient information and recording clinical findings.
• Visual Assessment – Evaluating visual function and interpreting results.
• Visual Field Testing & Pupil Assessment – Measuring visual fields and assessing pupil responses.
• Tonometry & Ocular Measurements – Measuring intraocular pressure and other eye parameters.
• Optics and Refraction Fundamentals – Basic principles of optics, refraction, lensometry, and keratometry.
• Patient Care Skills – Providing care and educating patients in ophthalmic settings.
• Pharmacology – Understanding common ophthalmic medications and their uses.
• Imaging & Diagnostic Testing – Using diagnostic imaging and supplemental tests.
• Medical Ethics & Legal/Regulatory Issues – Maintaining professional standards and compliance.
• General Clinical Knowledge – Understanding ocular anatomy, diseases, and general medical concepts.
  
  

Additional topics include equipment maintenance, contact lens basics, ophthalmic imaging, microbiology, and assisting in clinical procedures.

Ideal For

• Aspiring ophthalmic assistants seeking professional certification.
• Allied health personnel in ophthalmology who want recognized competency.
• Healthcare professionals aiming to work in clinics, hospitals, or vision care practices.
• Individuals planning to pursue advanced ophthalmic certifications such as Certified Ophthalmic Technician or Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist.
  
  

Knowledge Areas Covered

• Patient History & Documentation: Collecting accurate patient information and documenting findings.
• Visual Function & Assessment: Visual acuity, field testing, and pupil evaluation.
• Clinical Measurements: Tonometry, keratometry, lensometry, and refraction basics.
• Pharmacology: Understanding ophthalmic medications and their indications.
• Imaging and Diagnostics: Operation and interpretation of diagnostic tools.
• Patient Interaction & Education: Communication and patient education skills.
• Ethics & Regulation: Professional ethics, legal responsibilities, and regulatory compliance.
• General Ophthalmic Knowledge: Eye anatomy, physiology, and recognition of common ocular diseases.
• Ancillary Skills: Equipment maintenance, infection control, and clinical support tasks.