VC 261 - General Dispensing Practice

Credit Hours: 1

A course in agency observation, study and participation, aimed at orienting the student optician to a specific field work assignment with emphasis on supervised participation in the work of the ophthalmic dispensing agency. In addition to observing, reporting and recording, there is a practical application of minor and major ophthalmic dispensing skills in an actual ophthalmic dispensing (out-clinic) setting.

Course Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

complete minor repairs to customers eyewear;
readjust eyewear to customers satisfaction in a normal period of time;
interact courteously with co-workers and customers alike;
apply skills learned in Ophthalmic Dispensing Lab to situations encountered in actual business practice;
suggest appropriate eyewear to the public regarding frame compatibility with the customer prescription;
describe benefits accruable to the customer based on frames, size, color, type, and/or material;
take all required facial and anatomical measurements to correctly fabricate the customer’s prescription;
deliver the completed eyewear to the customer, making all necessary adjustments beyond the basic bench adjustment, including directions to the customer on proper handling, maintenance and pitfalls concerning adjustment to the new optical power of the lenses and prescription;
document and place order, transmit specifications and record appropriate laboratory information;
maintain price and product lists by monitoring price and product availability;
determine patient’s participation in a third party program and complete appropriate documentation; and
establish rapport with patient and demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.

Prerequisites: VC 246
Concurrent Registration: VC 256
S (N)