FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 9, 2013) – Dr. John W. Snead, M.D., F.A.C.S., founder and medical director of Snead Eye Group, is proud to announce that Karen Niekum has completed the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant course.

            As a certified ophthalmic assistant, Niekum will work under the supervision and direction of an ophthalmologist or optometrist and perform ophthalmic clinical duties, including measuring visual acuity, instill ocular medications, obtain ocular, medical and family history, measure, compare and test pupils, perform manifest refractometry, instruct patient regarding medications, tests and procedures, and coordinate patient flow.

A member of Snead Eye Group since February 2012, Niekum received her Bachelor of Science degree in business from the University of Phoenix.

“We are proud of Karen for taking the initiative to obtain her certification, as we encourage all of our new technicians to become certified,” said Dr. John W. Snead. “Snead Eye Group is dedicated to providing educational opportunities for the betterment of our staff, further enhancing the overall patient experience.”

The COA course teaches the anatomy of the eye and surrounding area, how to recognize symptoms and document a chief complaint, and perform examinations and testing according to practice protocols and the standards set forth by the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Founded by Dr. John W. Snead in 1985, Snead Eye Group offers eye care for a lifetime, from fitting your first pair of glasses or contact lenses to curing cataracts while providing the latest technology and treatment options available. With locations in Fort Myers and Naples, Snead Eye Group employs more than 30 experienced staff members, two ophthalmologists and three optometric doctors.