Suzanne Gunning
Acworth,GA
Summary
Experienced Certified Ophthalmic Technician with over 17 years of clinical expertise in General Ophthalmology, Cataract, Retina, and Glaucoma care. Since 2022, I’ve taken on a clinical training role, successfully onboarding and mentoring over 100 new ophthalmic assistants to support a dynamic, expanding ophthalmology practice in the Atlanta area. Passionate about delivering exceptional patient care, and empowering the next generation of eye care professionals through hands-on training and education.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Clinical Trainer
Marietta Eye Clinic
Marietta, GA
02.2022 - Current
- Designed and delivered comprehensive training programs for new and existing clinical staff
- Provided hands-on instruction on medical equipment, clinical protocols, and EHR documentation
- Assessed staff competencies, identifying training needs to improve care quality and efficiency
- Evaluated training outcomes through surveys, skill assessments, and observational reviews
Lead Ophthalmic Technician
Marietta Eye Clinic
Marietta, GA
08.2014 - 02.2022
- Served as Lead Technician for a high-volume cataract surgeon
- Managed daily clinic workflow, reducing patient wait times and enhancing efficiency
- Conducted preoperative testing and chart preparation for cataract surgeries
- Ensured thorough and accurate documentation in compliance with surgical protocols
- Collaborated closely with the physician and multidisciplinary care team
Lead Ophthalmic Technician
Marietta Eye Clinic
Marietta, GA
06.2013 - 08.2014
- Promoted to support both an Optometrist and a General Ophthalmologist
- Maintained seamless clinic operations across alternating provider schedules
- Performed patient pre-testing, flow coordination, and clinical documentation
- Strengthened multitasking, time management, and organizational abilities
Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)
Marietta Eye Clinic
Marietta, GA
03.2010 - 06.2013
- Earned COA certification in 2010
- Promoted to Lead Technician for an optometrist within the clinic
- Conducted vision screenings at local nursing homes to support community outreach
- Provided direct clinical care and expanded ophthalmic knowledge in diverse settings
Ophthalmic Assistant
Marietta Eye Clinic
Marietta, GA
06.2008 - 02.2010
- Collected patient history, checked visual acuity, and assisted with diagnostic testing
- Administered tonometry, pupil dilation, and visual field screenings under supervision
- Maintained exam rooms and sterilized equipment in compliance with safety protocols
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Health Studies
North Metro Technical College
Acworth, GA09-2008
Medical Assisting - Diploma
North Metro Technical College
Acworth, GA06-2008
Skills
- Curriculum development for ophthalmic assistants
- Surgical chart preparation and review
- Adaptability in fast-paced clinical settings
- New hire training
- Creative problem solving
- Presentations and demonstrations
- Team collaboration
Certification
Ophthalmic Scribe Certified (OSC) | April 2023 – April 2026
Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) | September 2024 – September 2027
Timeline
Clinical Trainer
Marietta Eye Clinic
02.2022 - Current
Lead Ophthalmic Technician
Marietta Eye Clinic
08.2014 - 02.2022
Lead Ophthalmic Technician
Marietta Eye Clinic
06.2013 - 08.2014
Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)
Marietta Eye Clinic
03.2010 - 06.2013
Ophthalmic Assistant
Marietta Eye Clinic
06.2008 - 02.2010
Associate of Applied Science - Health Studies
North Metro Technical College
Medical Assisting - Diploma
North Metro Technical College
Similar Profiles
HONG PHAMHONG PHAM
Ophthalmic Assistant at Marietta Eye ClinicOphthalmic Assistant at Marietta Eye Clinic
NATALIE SLEPSKYNATALIE SLEPSKY
Circulating Nurse, Operating Room at Marietta Eye Clinic Surgery CenterCirculating Nurse, Operating Room at Marietta Eye Clinic Surgery Center
Carley AllenCarley Allen
Registered Nurse- Preop, PACU, and OR at Marietta Eye Clinic- Covenant HealthRegistered Nurse- Preop, PACU, and OR at Marietta Eye Clinic- Covenant Health
MICHELLE YOSTMICHELLE YOST
Wellness Director at Gaines Park Senior LivingWellness Director at Gaines Park Senior Living
Deborah Abernathy-SmithDeborah Abernathy-Smith
Buyer Purchasing Specialist (Contract) at Wellstar Health SystemsBuyer Purchasing Specialist (Contract) at Wellstar Health Systems