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In this episode, Kimberly was invited to share her insights on what advice she would give to new ophthalmic technicians. This is a topic she knows well after more than 30 years in the field as an ophthalmic technician, clinical administrator, and educator. 

🎬 Watch the video here: Tech Talk: Kimberly Barblock – Patient Safety and Patient Advocacy 

A Focus on Patient Safety and Advocacy 

In the video, Kimberly emphasizes two of the most essential qualities for any ophthalmic medical technician: patient safety and advocacy. 

“When I think of these two things – patient safety and patient advocacy – I’m reminded of a slogan that was adopted when I lived in New York City: *If you see something, say something.* That slogan was all about how staying hypervigilant and speaking up could help keep New Yorkers safe. The reason this slogan resonated with me in my professional life is because that’s really how I’ve always approached my role in clinic,” she explains.

Drawing from her extensive clinical experience, Kimberly recounts a powerful story of how careful observation during a routine eye exam led to the early detection of a serious medical condition. The lesson, she says, is clear: technicians play a vital role in protecting patients’ vision and overall health. 

Key Takeaways for New Technicians 

Kimberly’s message to those entering the field is both encouraging and practical: 

• Patient safety must always be your first priority. 

• Take your role seriously. Technicians are not just assistants—they are integral members of the eye care team. 

• Be alert and curious—every test, every measurement matters. 

• Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t seem right, bring it to the doctor’s attention right away.  

• Never stop learning. The most successful technicians seek ongoing education, mentorship, and certification opportunities to refine their skills throughout their career. 

Preparing the Next Generation 

At Alexandria Technical & Community College, the OPMT program prepares students for rewarding careers in ophthalmology through a hybrid online learning model paired with hands-on clinical rotations. Graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and are eligible to sit for the intermediate-level IJCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) certification exam. 

The program’s curriculum is designed to instill the same principles Kimberly highlights in her interview—technical proficiency, patient safety, teamwork, and advocacy—so that every graduate enters the profession ready to make a meaningful difference in patient care.