Continuing Education & Resources

Free and low-cost resources for COA certification preparation and continuing education credits. All links open in a new tab.

Official Organization

IJCAHPO (Official Certifying Body)

The certifying body for COA, COT, COMT, and OSC. Exam applications, content outlines, handbooks, and recertification requirements.

Official Organization

https://www.jcahpo.org/

CE Courses

IJCAHPO EyeCareCE

Official continuing education courses for ophthalmic medical personnel — also useful as structured exam review.

CE Courses

https://www.jcahpo.org/eyecarece

Study Guide

American Academy of Ophthalmology — Ophthalmic Medical Assisting Course

The AAO's independent study course and textbook — the traditional (paid) COA preparation route.

Study Guide

https://www.aao.org/

EyeGuru

Free ophthalmology learning resources written for residents — the essentials sections double as excellent technician background reading.

Study Guide

https://eyeguru.org/

Video Education

Tim Root — OphthoBook

Free ophthalmology video lectures and the OphthoBook text — approachable anatomy, optics, and exam-technique explanations.

Video Education

https://timroot.com/

About COA Certification

The COA (Certified Ophthalmic Assistant) credential from IJCAHPO demonstrates entry-level competency in ophthalmic clinical assisting. The computer-based exam covers the JCAHPO content areas, and certification is maintained with continuing education credits. Verify current exam format and fees at jcahpo.org.

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