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Certification

Corporate Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

The designation of Corporate Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (CCOA) offers corporate employees of companies that supply products and services to the ophthalmic profession the recognition that they have the essential knowledge in both ophthalmology and industry technology.

Eligibility Requirements

Individuals interested in IJCAHPO certification must first establish eligibility to test. The eligibility pathways should be reviewed prior to submitting an examination application and related fees. IJCAHPO retains the sole authority to establish eligibility requirements and final decisions regarding examination eligibility.

To be eligible, candidates must meet the following education and work experience category:

CCOA: Work Experience

Required Education

Completed an approved independent study course, within 36 months prior to submitting your application. Approved study courses include the JCAHPO Career Advancement Tool (JCAT) or the AAO Ophthalmic Medical Assisting course

and

You will need to submit 12 IJCAHPO CE credits earned within 12 months prior to submitting your application. View CE opportunities.

REQUIRED WORK EXPERIENCE

Employed by a company or supplier of ophthalmology products and/or services.

Examination Information

The IJCAHPO certification process is examination-based. Examinations are based on research conducted every five years to determine the typical tasks performed by Allied Ophthalmic Personnel (AOP). These tasks are grouped into categories, and the examinations are designed to include questions pertaining to each category.

Timeline

Certification applications must be received within the allotted time frame in each eligibility pathway. Application for retest must be received within 12 months of initial examination.

Scheduling & Test center

Candidates may schedule their examination at a Pearson VUE test center upon receipt of the confirmation notice. Candidates may use the toll-free number (888) 231-1929 or go online to www.pearsonvue.com/jcahpo to schedule their examination. A current list of test sites may also be viewed at www.pearsonvue.com/jcahpo by selecting โ€œFind a Test Site.โ€

IJCAHPO does not control test site availability or examination scheduling. To avoid scheduling complications, schedule examination times promptly after receiving the confirmation notice.

Special Accommodations

IJCAHPO and its test vendors do not discriminate against individuals with disabilities and make every effort to reasonably accommodate candidates with documented disabilities as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you have a disability as defined under the ADA, you must notify IJCAHPO by submitting a form regarding your request from your physician or a qualified healthcare professional.

How to Prepare

Build your confidence by studying all areas of the examination content thoroughly. Use multiple resources, take practice quizzes and tests, and make sure you understand what you are studying. View the resources IJCAHPO has available to help you prepare for your examination.

Study Resources

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) Quick Study Cards and Study Guides will help you prepare for your CCOA certification examination.

Independent Study Courses

In-depth resources for the day-to-day knowledge and skills you need to know.

Certification Exam Prep Sessions

Offered live and virtually, attend a COA Exam Prep Session to prepare for the CCOA written certification examination.

Apply Now

Once you have met the requirements to apply for the CCOA examination, submit your application online or by mail.

In Need of Recertification?

Maintaining certification is just as important as earning it. Review the requirements to recertify and submit your application.