Ophthalmology Medical Technology Specialty — Jessica Castillo Díaz

Medical Technology Ophthalmology Specialty

About Jessica Castillo Díaz

Jessica Castillo Díaz
Assistant Professor, Valparaiso University and UTA since 2009. 2003–2009 Faculty, Medical Technology School, Universidad Andrés Bello. Medical Technologist in Ophthalmology, University of Chile. Post-degree in visual field. Studying for a Master in Teaching for Higher Education. Treasurer, Chilean Scientific Society of Ophthalmology Technologists; Scientific Director, SCCHTMO.

Research on tear film macromolecules, University of Chile, with two international publications.

Our History

In 1955 the creation of the Ophthalmology specialty at the School of Technical Laboring, National Health Service, was agreed upon, and teaching began in 1956. The main purpose was to train professionals in the areas of prevention, cure, and research in Ophthalmology. The first head teacher was Professor Dr. Juan Arentsen Sauer.

• In 1957 the first graduating class of specialty Technicians received the title Laboring in Ophthalmology.
• The pioneers were: Ms. Lilian Cathalifaud Argandoña A. (RIP) 1928–1989 and Mrs. Lena Wolnitzky Schachli.
• In 1960 the program and thus the field became dependent on the Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile.
• Along with this development, the Technical Labor School was renamed the Medical Technology School.
• The first university specialty class graduated in 1964.

What Do We Study?

Curriculum

1st Year (specialty)

• Ocular morphophysiology and epidemiology
• Biophysics and optics
• Visual system exploration
• Morpho-physiopathology of the eye
• Visual field study
• Orthoptics and pleoptics
• Administration and management

2nd Year (specialty)

• Medical photography
• Scientific communication and neuro-related topics
• Ophthalmic pharmacokinetics
• Law, ethics, and personal development
• Functional tests I and II
• Ocular imaging
• Refractive surgery procedures
• Contact lenses and optics

3rd Year (specialty)

• Bioethics
• Internship training
• Professional thesis (Tesis Profesional)
• Public health
• Information technology
• Review of grade, etc.

Definitions

• Plan - Execute - Analyze - Interpret
• Foster - Prevent - Recover
• Manage - Review - Coordinate

Roles

Care - Research - Teaching - Extension - Administration

Function in Care

• Scientific knowledge and technology contribute.
• Perform, run, monitor, and control techniques.
• Prevention, maintenance, and restoration of visual health.
• Work settings: hospitals, clinics, polyclinics.
• Employment sectors: state, private, municipal.
• Private consultation.