Digital Imaging Technician - Ophthalmology

Job overview

The post holder will actively participate in the effective and efficient maintenance of a comprehensive angiography, imaging and photography service for the Ophthalmology department

An imaging service is required to provide photographic and digital images of patients for diagnostic, clinical recording, medico-legal and research/teaching purposes. Increasing demands on the service due to NICE Guidelines for photodynamic therapy (age related macular degeneration) and increasing use of imaging in management of Diabetes (NICE Guidelines and National Service Framework) and Glaucoma make medical imaging a vital role within the ophthalmology department.

It is possible with the use of specialist eye imaging equipment, to cover all aspects of ophthalmology including retinal, anterior segment and facial imaging.

The department is in an outpatient area and there is direct contact with all levels of staff, and direct contact with patients of all ages with varying degrees of clinical need.

Main duties of the job

Undertake a wide range of diagnostic and investigative imaging for patients within the ophthalmology service.

Conduct imaging on OCT (optical Coherence Tomography), OPTOS UWF camera, Pentacam Corneal Imaging and External Photography when required.

Conduct Visual Acuity testing via LOGMAR and instill eye drops within clinic.

Undertake Visual Field testing using HVF equipment

Contribute to research and auditing within the department as required.

Continued training, ensuring that all required training is undertaken within time limits.

Help with administration within the department, complying with Trust and Departmental policies and procedures.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

MAIN FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB

Clinical Responsibilities:

• Retinal fundus imaging. Requires technician to capture images from a patient with previously dilated pupil, by sitting patient at equipment ensuring comfort and reassurance.
• Retinal and Anterior segment Fluorescein Angiography. This is a diagnostic procedure, used on patients with sight threatening conditions, as a guide to possible or further treatment. A degree of experience and knowledge is required to perform this task, to ensure the best information for ophthalmologists. Requires technician to capture a series of retinal images from a patient with previously dilated pupil, by sitting patient at equipment ensuring patient is comfortable, reassured and understands the procedure.

• OCT – Optical Coherence Tomography.  A diagnostic laser scanning procedure to determine retinal pathology. Patient treatment will be determined by result. A computer driven piece of equipment requiring patient cooperation.

• To carry out Visual field testing (automated) to the highest standard

The above require a high degree of skill and accuracy to obtain good quality clinical

images, for furthering patient care and treatment. There is a requirement to manoeuvre patients and equipment into position.  Computer skills together with high levels of hand eye co-ordination are essential to operate and maintain back up of the equipment used.

• To ensure up-to-date knowledge of developments in relation to imaging and associated procedures.

• To promote collaborative working partnership and effective communication between all members of the multi-disciplinary team
• To maintain patient confidentiality at all times
• To minimize hazards in the working area and report any identifiable hazards to the line manager.  To adhere to all safe systems of work applicable to the work area
• To carry out imaging in outreach clinics in Herefordshire.

Research & Audit:

• Carries out audits/surveys as part of own role

Training & Development:

• To identify areas for self-development and training within the Performance Planning and Development Review structure
• To maintain a professional portfolio and reflective diary for developmental purposes
• To participate in an annual appraisal
• To attend appropriate training events, courses and lectures thereby maintaining up to date knowledge and skills

Administrative Responsibilities

• To be responsible for the care of equipment and reporting faults
• To be aware of and comply with organisational ad departmental policies and Procedures
• Ensure compliance with trust policies and procedures
• To deal with enquiries that may arise during the working day and liaise with the appropriate person to take action.