The Surgical Ophthalmology Patient Advocate serves as a compassionate guide and primary point of contact for patients preparing for ophthalmic surgical consultations and procedures. This role supports patients by calling them before their surgical consult, reviewing what to expect, gathering relevant information, answering general questions, and helping them understand available lens options so they feel informed and prepared before meeting with the surgeon. The Patient Advocate works closely with providers, surgical coordinators, technicians, and administrative staff to promote a smooth, efficient, and patient-centered surgical experience. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Contact patients prior to their surgical consultation to introduce the surgical process, confirm appointment details, and prepare them for what to expect. Review the patient's general visual needs, lifestyle goals, concerns, and questions to help the clinical team better understand the patient's expectations. Educate patients in a clear and supportive manner about the surgical consultation process, pre-operative testing, surgical scheduling steps, and general post-operative expectations. Explain available intraocular lens options, including standard and advanced technology lenses, in a way that helps patients understand the differences before discussing final recommendations with the surgeon. Encourage patients to consider their daily visual activities, such as reading, driving, computer use, hobbies, and desire for reduced dependence on glasses, when thinking about lens choices. Provide accurate information while staying within established practice guidelines and ensuring medical decisions are deferred to the surgeon or appropriate clinical provider. Document patient conversations, questions, preferences, and concerns accurately in the appropriate system for provider and surgical team review. Coordinate with surgical counselors, technicians, providers, and administrative team members to ensure patients receive consistent information and timely follow-up. Assist patients with understanding next steps, required paperwork, financing or payment discussions when applicable, and scheduling expectations. Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and all practice policies regarding protected health information. Respond professionally and empathetically to patient questions, concerns, or anxiety related to surgery, escalating clinical or urgent issues to the appropriate team member. Support overall surgical conversion, patient satisfaction, and continuity of care by creating a positive and informative patient experience. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required; additional healthcare, ophthalmology, optometry, or medical office training preferred. Previous experience in ophthalmology, surgical scheduling, patient counseling, customer service, or healthcare administration preferred. Knowledge of cataract surgery, ophthalmic procedures, intraocular lens options, or willingness to complete training in these areas. Strong verbal communication skills with the ability to explain information clearly, patiently, and professionally by phone. Excellent organization, attention to detail, and ability to document patient interactions accurately. Ability to follow clinical and administrative protocols while recognizing when to escalate questions to a provider or supervisor. Comfort using electronic health records, scheduling systems, phone systems, and standard office software. Ability to maintain professionalism, empathy, and composure when working with patients who may be nervous, confused, or uncertain about surgery. Key Competencies Patient-centered communication Empathy and active listening Knowledge retention and ability to explain complex information simply Professional phone etiquette Accuracy in documentation Team collaboration Respect for patient privacy and confidentiality Initiative, accountability, and follow-through Work Environment and Expectations This role is typically performed in a clinical office or call-center style environment within an ophthalmology practice. The Patient Advocate may spend a significant portion of the day on the phone with patients and coordinating with internal team members. The position requires professionalism, confidentiality, accuracy, and a strong commitment to delivering an excellent patient experience throughout the surgical journey.

Pay:

$20.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Work Location:

In person