Ophthalmic tech once styled hair at University of Notre Dame

At one point Angela White’s career was focused on hair. Now, it’s all about the eyes.

By TJ Banes, IU Health Senior Journalist, tfender1@iuhealth.org

As caregivers go, Angela White once showed her selfless spirit by shaving her head to benefit children’s cancer research. She donated her long locks to those in need. She has also been a mentor for adolescent girls, helping them build resilience and confidence.

So working in a healthcare facility is not an unusual career change for someone who was once a hairdresser at the University of Notre Dame.

A graduate of Elkhart Central High School, White received her cosmetology training in high school. After learning from a friend about a career as an ophthalmic technician, she switched gears and focused on the eyes.

Ophthalmic Technicians Week celebrates those healthcare professionals working in the field of eye care. At IU Health these technicians are responsible for a variety of tasks including measuring visual acuity and testing for glaucoma. They may also have a hand in assisting with minor surgical procedures and managing chronic eye conditions.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates this healthcare profession is on the rise - providing specialized care for an aging population.

“I had never heard of the career before but I knew from my friend that it offers better work-life balance,” said White, a wife and mother to two, who enjoys volunteering at her children's school.

She came to IU Health in 2015 and now works part time. “I can focus on my children and still maintain my skills,” said White. “Working in ophthalmology is cool because I see many of the same patients every month so I get to know them and develop relationships with them.”

She estimates the average age of her patients is between 60-65 and a lot of them come in describing symptoms associated with poor vision but don’t know the cause. Doctors in her practice test and determine the exact causes - such as macular degeneration to glaucoma.

She received certification through testing and her training is ongoing.

When people ask, White shares that she did wear glasses and contacts, but had eye surgery to correct her vision.