Content Outline and Test Specifications for the National Contact Lens Examiners Advanced Certification Examination

Content Area

Obtain and document the customer's/patient's history through oral interview and records to determine if the customer/patient is a lens candidate.
Assess the technical aspects of the customer's/patient's ocular status for lens wear by using instrumentation and other empirical methods to determine appropriate contact lens options.
Discuss the customer's/patient's needs and expectations, evaluate all gathered information, and explain different lens wear options to meet customer's/patient's visual, physiological and psychological needs.

Select lens materials/design based on previously gathered information in order to conduct a diagnostic lens evaluation, if trial lens fitting is deemed beneficial.
Insert trial lenses and evaluate findings in order to determine appropriate lens selection.
Determine lens parameters by using the results obtained from the diagnostic fitting (trial insertion) and evaluate objective findings and customer's/patient's subjective responses to fitting so that the appropriate lens can be ordered.
Order lenses by specifying lens parameters to achieve appropriate lens design.

Verify lens parameters by comparing lenses received to lenses ordered to assure accuracy.
Educate the customer/patient on all aspects of lens wear by providing verbal and written instructions and hands-on practice with the lenses to promote compliance.
Dispense lenses and assess the fit thought objective and subjective means to ensure appropriate fit.
Schedule future appointments for follow-up assessment of lens wear.

Determine the customer's/patient's subjective response through interview to lens wear in order to evaluate lens fit and performance.
Observe lens fit and performance by using instrumentation and diagnostic tools to determine objective findings.
Determine the need to modify/alter lens design and/or material based on objective findings and subjective responses in order to improve lens fit or performance.
Make appropriate changes to original lens if necessary, and then reassess new or modified lens for fit and performance.
Review through customer/patient discussion and/or demonstration all aspects of lens wear and care to promote compliance.
Schedule future appointments to monitor lens fit and ocular integrity, promote continuity of care, and assure customer/patient awareness of new contact lens developments and technology.
Maintain complete and accurate customer/patient records and refer customer/patient to original prescriber for verification of lens fit.

Communicate with other professionals (e.g., ophthalmologist, optometrist, and optician).
Establish and maintain effective communications with vendors.
Serve as an expert resource and educator for other professionals including opticians, optometrists, ophthalmologists and ancillary personnel.

Plan, implement, and/or evaluate personnel policies and practices that comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws.
Plan, implement and/or evaluate programs to promote recruitment procedures that enhance staff selection and retention (e.g., benefits, training, incentives, flexible work schedules, staff recognition, regular performance appraisals).
Establish and maintain a safe and positive work environment (e.g., safety training, employee risk management, communication and motivational techniques).
Plan, implement and/or evaluate a staff in-service training program.

Establish and maintain effective customer/patient and practitioner interactions.
Establish policies and procedures regarding verbal and written communications (e.g., scripting, employee empowerment).
Review employee documents and customer/patient complaints to analyze and resolve problems.
Re-evaluate policies and procedures and complaints to prevent future problems, modify policies and procedures, if necessary.

Develop, implement and/or monitor policies and procedures regarding inventory and inventory control.
Develop, implement and/or monitor policies and procedures regarding tools and equipment and their maintenance.

Attend educational events (e.g., seminars, workshops, trade shows, conventions).
Conduct educational events (e.g., seminars, workshops, trade shows, conventions).
Set goals and clarify professional objectives.
Develop and implement time management.
Maintain professional certification.