They use precision instruments to administer diagnostic tests, measure and record vision, and test the functioning of eyes and eye muscles. They also show patients how to use eye dressings, protective shields, and safety glasses, and insert, remove, and care for contact lenses. Under the direction of the physician, they may administer medications, including eye drops. They also maintain optical and surgical instruments and assist the ophthalmologist in surgery. Medical assisting is one of the few health occupations open to individuals with no formal training.
Medical assistants work in a well-lighted, clean environment.
They constantly interact with other people, and may have to handle several responsibilites at once. Some work evenings and weekends. Employment Medical assistants held about 181,000 jobs in 1992. Over 70 percent were employed in physicians' offices, and about 12 percent worked in offices of other health practitioners such as chiropractors, optometrists, and podiatrists. Others worked in hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care facilities.