Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology

The Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) is the certifying body for allied health personnel in the medical field of ophthalmology, who are collectively termed ophthalmic medical personnel (OMP). It is governed by a board that represents related organizations that have an interest in developing the personnel in ophthalmology, such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

JCAHPO offers three general certifications that are successive, forming a career ladder.

Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) - Advanced Level Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) - Intermediate Level Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) - Entry Level

JCAHPO also offers two specialty certifications, ophthalmic surgical assisting and Registered Ophthalmic Ultrasound Biometrist (ROUB).

Related to JCAHPO is the Association of Technical Personnel in Ophthalmology, which is a professional association of OMP. ATPO does not provide certification, but facilitates professional activities such as networking and continuing education.

Member Organizations
American Academy of Ophthalmology (website)

American Association of Certified Orthoptists

American Glaucoma Society

American Ophthalmological Society

American Orthoptic Council

American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery with the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators (website)

American Society of Retina Specialists

Association of Technical Personnel in Ophthalmology (website)

Association of University Professors in Ophthalmology

Association of Veterans Affairs Ophthalmologists

Canadian Ophthalmological Society (website)

Consortium of Ophthalmic Training Programs

Contact Lens Association of Ophthalmologists (website)

North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society (website)

Ophthalmic Photographers' Society (website)

Society of Military Ophthalmologists

The Canadian Orthoptic Society

Websites
JCAHPO Website

ATPO Website