Part-time Standardized Patients - NBEO

The National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) is hiring part-time Standardized Patients to assist the organization. 

Founded in 1951, the National Board of Examiners in Optometry is an independent, non-governmental, non-profit organization whose examinations are universally accepted for optometric licensure in the United States and internationally.  NBEO’s mission is to protect the public by developing, administering, scoring, and reporting results of valid examinations that assess competence in optometry.  NBEO has a full-time staff of 22 and utilizes over 100 optometrists as subject matter experts nationwide in support of its examination programs.  NBEO is one of the few national boards in any profession with a repertoire of exams that include computer-based tests, an advanced competence exam, and clinical skills test using standardized patients at the National Center of Clinical Testing in Optometry (NCCTO). We work to maintain the best possible environment for our employees, where people can learn and grow with the organization.  We strive to provide a collaborative, creative environment where each person feels encouraged to contribute to our processes, decisions, planning and culture.

This role is a part-time, onsite position based in Charlotte, NC. 

Reporting to the NCCTO Site Manager, Standardized Patients are responsible for maintaining a highly standardized testing environment for candidates to high-stakes licensure examinations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:

• Participate in the Part III Patient Encounters and Performance Skills (“PEPS”) exam performed by Optometry candidates
  • Participation includes being eligible to sit and sitting as a standardized patient for clinical skills procedures, including Anterior and Posterior Segment procedures
    • Anterior Segment procedures include:
      • Biomicroscopy-an evaluation of the eyelids, eyelashes, lacrimal drainage, conjunctiva, sclera, cornea, anterior chamber, iris, crystalline lens and includes upper lid eversion
      • Goldmann Applanation Tonometry-a measurement of the intraocular pressure
      • Gonioscopy-a procedure using a type of contact lens to assess the relative openness of the anterior chamber angle
    • Posterior Segment procedures include:
      • Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscopy-an assessment of the peripheral retina
      • Dilated Biomicroscopy and Non-Contact Fundus Lens Evaluation-includes evaluation of the lens, vitreous, and retina including the optic nerve and macula
• Portray real-life patients to simulate specific conditions based on a script

This will require being comfortable with critical elements of an eye examination and candidate interactions

• Serve as a proctor for the Injections Skill Exam (“ISE”), the Laser and Surgical Procedures Exam (“LSPE”) and Posterior Segment Skills of the Part III PEPS exam when requested.
• Properly complete a checklist before and after testing as part of standard operating procedures
• Clean optometric equipment following specific protocols
• Assess candidate performance based on scoring criteria set for this position
• Maintain strict confidentiality of all secure exam materials and information and candidate information
• Report any testing abnormalities or candidate issues promptly
• Consistently adhere to training and standardization requirements
• Demonstrate reliability and punctuality
• Pay great attention to detail before, during, and after testing administrations
• Exhibit excellent communication and listening skills
• Provide appropriate feedback regarding a candidate’s performance
• Follow appropriate protocols for the video and audio recording of exam performances for scoring and education purposes
• Contribute as a team player based on organizational needs
• Assist with other projects at the discretion of the NCCTO Site Manager, Associate Director of Clinical Examination Operations, Sr. Director of Clinical Examination Development and Administration, and/or Executive Director.

Qualifications

Able to work collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary team, excellent written and oral communication skills, ability to handle complex tasks, strong organizational skills, ability to balance multiple competing priorities and maintain a high degree of responsiveness.  

We work to maintain the best possible environment for our employees, where people can learn and grow with the organization. We strive to provide a collaborative, creative environment where each person feels encouraged to contribute to our processes, decisions, planning, and culture.

Applicants should send their resume and cover letter to paul.yang@optometry.org.