Students admitted to the Ophthalmic Medical Technology Program at LSUHSC can be expected to complete the course requirements which necessitate the physical and mental abilities listed below. Any student who thinks he/she does not possess one or more of the following skills, should seek assistance from an academic counselor or faculty advisor and Disabled Student Services concerning any flexibility in program requirements and possible accommodation through technical aids and assistance.

• Students must have excellent corrected visual acuity and the ability to see depth and color. 

• Students must be able to speak, hear, and observe patients in order to ascertain information and perceive nonverbal communication. 

• Students must be able to communicate in English effectively and efficiently in oral and written form in order to interact with patients and other health professionals. 

• Students must have the ability to read in English charts, records, scales, small print, and handwritten notations. 

• Students must have sufficient motor function to operate ophthalmic equipment, as well as execute movements required to provide general patient care. 

• Students must possess the ability to move independently from room to room and maneuver in small/dimly lit spaces. 

• Students must possess the ability to exercise good judgment, the capability to develop mature, sensitive and effective relationships with patients.

• Students must have the ability to assimilate knowledge acquired through lectures, discussion, and readings.

• Students must comprehend and apply basic arithmetic and algebraic skills. 

• Students must comprehend and apply abstract concepts from biological, sociological, and psychological sciences. 

• Student must have the ability to maintain composure while managing multiple tasks simultaneously. 

• Student must be able to recognize potentially hazardous materials, equipment, and situations and proceed safely in order to minimize risk of injury to patients, self, and nearby individuals. 

• Student must be honest, compassionate, ethical , and responsible. Must be forthright about errors or uncertainty. Must be able to critically evaluate her or his own performance, accept constructive criticism, and look for ways to improve (i.e. participate in enriched educational activities). Student must be able to evaluate the performance of fellow students and tactfully offer constructive comments.

• Student must show respect for individuals of different age, ethnic background, religion, and/or sexual orientation. 

• Student must maintain personal hygiene consistent with close personal contact associated with patient care. 

• Student must be able to display attitudes/actions consistent with the ethical standards of the profession by conforming to appropriate standards of dress, appearance, language and public behavior.

• Students must possess the stamina to examine patients and attend lectures within the eight hour, normal work day, both in clinic and private practice settings, and complete requirements within the allotted 24 month period.