17 Orthoptist Interview Questions and Answers

Orthoptists are eye care professionals who work with patients of all ages to diagnose and treat disorders of the visual system. Orthoptists work closely with ophthalmologists and other eye care professionals to provide comprehensive care for patients.

If you’re interested in becoming an orthoptist, you’ll need to complete a four-year accredited orthoptic program. After you’ve completed your studies, you’ll need to pass a national board examination to become licensed. Once you’re licensed, you can start looking for jobs.

When you’re interviewing for an orthoptist job, you’ll be asked a variety of questions about your qualifications, experience, and skills. You may also be asked questions about the orthoptic profession and your career goals. To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve compiled a list of sample orthoptist interview questions and answers.

Are you certified as an orthoptist?

The interviewer may ask this question to determine if you have the necessary certification for the position. If you are not certified, explain what steps you took to become certified and when you plan on taking your exam. If you are already certified, mention which organization issued your certificate.

Example: “I am currently studying to take my certification exam through the American Board of Orthoptics. I will be ready to take it by next month. I feel that having a certification is important because it shows employers that I am qualified in the field. It also allows me to work with patients who need orthoptic care.”

What are the most common eye conditions you treat as an orthoptist?

This question can help the interviewer gain insight into your experience with treating patients. It also helps them understand what you might be able to contribute to their team if they decide to hire you. In your answer, try to include a few of the most common conditions orthoptists treat and how you would handle each one.

Example: “The two most common eye conditions I have treated as an orthoptist are amblyopia and strabismus. Amblyopia is when a person has reduced vision in one or both eyes due to poor development of the visual cortex. Strabismus is when a person’s eyes don’t line up properly, which can cause double vision. Both of these conditions require treatment from an orthoptist because we use different types of lenses to improve the patient’s vision.”

How would you treat a patient who has double vision?

This question can help interviewers assess your ability to treat patients with challenging conditions. In your answer, you should describe the steps you would take to determine what’s causing the double vision and how you would treat it.

Example: “I would first ask the patient about their symptoms and perform a physical exam. I would then use my diagnostic equipment to measure the patient’s eye movements and test for any abnormalities in their visual field. If I determined that the patient has double vision because of an issue with their eyes or brain, I would refer them to a specialist who could provide more advanced treatment.”

What is the first thing you do when you meet a new patient?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you interact with patients and their families. Showcase your interpersonal skills by describing a specific situation in which you helped a patient or family feel more comfortable during an appointment.

Example: “When I meet new patients, I first introduce myself and shake their hand. Then, I ask them to tell me about themselves so that I can get to know them better. This helps me learn what they expect from our appointments and allows me to make sure I am providing them with all of the information they need. For example, when I met with one family for the first time, I learned that both parents were hearing impaired. I made sure to speak clearly and write down everything I said so that they could understand.”

Provide an example of a time when you provided patient education about their eye condition.

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your communication skills and ability to educate patients about their eye conditions. When answering, it can be helpful to provide a specific example of how you used clear language and visuals to help the patient understand their condition.

Example: “When I first met with my last patient who had macular degeneration, they were very concerned about losing their vision completely. I explained that while there is no cure for the disease, there are ways to slow its progression. I showed them pictures of what objects would look like if they lost more vision in each eye and described the symptoms they should watch out for so they could get treatment sooner rather than later.”

If a patient has trouble reading, what strategies would you use to help them improve their reading ability?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your knowledge of different strategies you can use to help patients with reading disabilities. In your answer, explain the steps you would take to help a patient improve their reading ability and provide examples from past experiences when you helped someone learn how to read.

Example: “I have worked with many patients who had trouble reading due to vision problems or learning disabilities. I first try to determine what caused the problem so that I can address it appropriately. For example, if a patient has dyslexia, I will work with them on exercises designed to help them recognize letters and words more easily. If they have a vision problem, I will teach them techniques for enlarging text and using assistive devices.”

What would you do if you noticed a patient’s vision was getting worse?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle challenging situations. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to ensure that the patient’s vision is as good as possible and that they are comfortable with their treatment plan.

Example: “If I noticed a patient’s vision was getting worse, I would first ask them if they have been experiencing any new symptoms or changes in their vision. If they haven’t experienced anything new, I would schedule an appointment for them so we could perform another eye exam. If they have experienced something new, I would refer them to a specialist right away so they can get the care they need.”

How well can a person with glaucoma see?

This question can help the interviewer determine your knowledge of glaucoma and how you apply it to your work. Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. It’s one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States.

Example: “Glaucoma patients typically have vision loss in their peripheral vision. They may also experience blind spots or halos around lights. I always explain these symptoms to my patients so they know what to expect as treatment progresses.”

Do you have experience working with children?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience working with children and how you feel about it. If you do, share a story of a time when you helped a child overcome an obstacle or improved their confidence. If you don’t have experience working with children, explain that you are comfortable working with them and will be able to learn more about the best ways to work with them.

Example: “I worked as an orthoptist at a pediatric eye clinic for two years. I loved my job because I got to help kids who were excited to get their glasses. One day, I had a patient named Sarah who was very nervous about getting her first pair of glasses. She didn’t want anyone to know she needed glasses. I talked to her about why wearing glasses is good for your eyesight and explained that no one would ever know she wore glasses unless she told them. After our appointment, she felt much better about wearing glasses.”

When would you recommend a patient get eye surgery?

This question can help the interviewer determine your knowledge of eye surgery and when it’s appropriate to recommend it. Use examples from your experience that show you understand what factors influence a patient’s decision to have surgery.

Example: “I’ve worked with many patients who were considering eye surgery, so I know how important it is for them to make an informed decision about whether or not they should get it. In my last role, I helped a patient decide if she wanted to go through with the procedure after learning more about her vision problems and the risks associated with the surgery. She decided to move forward with the surgery because she was having trouble seeing clearly at work and in social situations.”

We want to improve our patient satisfaction rates. What is your strategy for improving patient satisfaction when they come to see you?

Interviewers ask this question to see how you can improve the patient experience. They want to know that you are a team player who is willing to help out wherever needed. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to ensure patients have positive experiences at the office.

Example: “I think it’s important for all of us in the office to work together to make sure our patients leave with a good impression. I always try to be friendly and helpful when they come in. If they need anything, I am happy to assist them or find someone else who can help them. I also like to give my patients plenty of time during their appointments so they feel comfortable asking questions.”

Describe your process for documenting a patient’s condition.

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your organizational skills and ability to work independently. In your answer, describe the steps you take when documenting a patient’s condition and how you keep track of important information.

Example: “I start by taking notes during my initial examination. I use shorthand in my notebook so that I can write quickly while still being able to read what I wrote later. After each appointment, I review my notes and make sure all of my observations are accurate. Then, I type up my notes into the computer system at my clinic. This allows me to store my records digitally and access them whenever necessary.”

What makes you stand out from other orthoptists?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your skills and abilities. They want to know what makes you unique as an orthoptist. When answering this question, think of a skill or quality that you have that other orthoptists might not. Try to choose something that is relevant to the job.

Example: “I am certified in three different types of vision correction procedures. This means I can treat patients with all kinds of eye conditions. Many orthoptists are only certified in one type of procedure. My certification allows me to provide better care for my patients.”

Which orthoptic specialty are you most interested in pursuing?

This question can help the interviewer determine if your interests align with their needs. If you are interviewing for a specific position, it is important to mention that specialty in your answer. If you are applying for multiple positions, it is helpful to list several specialties and explain why they interest you.

Example: “I am most interested in pediatric orthoptics because I enjoy working with children and families. In my previous role as an orthoptist, I worked primarily with adults, but I also had some experience working with children. I found that I really enjoyed helping them learn how to use their vision aids and seeing them succeed at school.”

What do you think is the most important skill for an orthoptist to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine your priorities and how you view the role. Your answer should show that you understand what an orthoptist does, but it can also be a chance to highlight any skills or experiences that make you uniquely qualified for the job.

Example: “I think the most important skill for an orthoptist is communication. An orthoptist needs to communicate with patients about their diagnosis and treatment plan, as well as with other medical professionals who are involved in their care. I have always been good at communicating clearly and compassionately, which has helped me build strong relationships with my patients.”

How often should a person with glaucoma visit an orthoptist?

Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss. An interviewer may ask this question to learn about your knowledge of glaucoma and how often you recommend patients visit an orthoptist. In your answer, explain what factors influence when you schedule appointments for glaucoma patients.

Example: “Glaucoma is a condition where pressure builds up in the eye, damaging the optic nerve. I typically recommend my glaucoma patients visit an orthoptist every six months. This allows me to monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan. If a patient’s eyesight starts to decline or they experience other symptoms like headaches or blurred vision, I may recommend they come in sooner.”

There is a new treatment for a condition you commonly treat. How would you learn about it and decide if you want to start recommending it to your patients?

This question can help the interviewer assess your critical thinking skills and how you apply them to your work. Use examples from your experience of researching new treatments or procedures that may benefit patients and implementing them into your practice.

Example: “I would first look at the research behind this treatment, including any clinical trials that have been conducted on it. I would then speak with colleagues who are already using the treatment to learn more about their experiences with it. If I feel comfortable recommending the treatment based on my research and conversations with other orthoptists, I would start suggesting it to my patients.”