Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) Performs a wide variety of diagnostic radiography exams under the direction of a physician. Operates all general diagnostic radiographic equipment and PACs related equipment as part of the diagnostic plan for patients in the Imaging Service. ***Highly qualified candidates may be eligible for a recruitment incentive*** Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Education: Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE). Certification: All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R). Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or Mammography (M) duties performed independently, as applicable. Exception for Non-Certified, Entry Level Candidates. Non-certified DRTs who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for ARRT (R) certification may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate DRT under the authority of 38 U.S.C. § 7405(c)(2)(B). The appointing official may waive the requirement of certification for a period not to exceed two years for a DRT that provides care under the supervision of a certified DRT at or above the full performance level. This exception only applies at the GS-5 entry level technician. English Language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). Grade Determinations: Diagnostic Radiologic Technician, GS-5 Experience or Education: None beyond the basic requirements. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-6 Experience or Education: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, GS-5, or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging. AND Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: (a) Knowledge of basic technique standards for minimum radiographic exposure. (b) Knowledge of anatomy and positioning. (c) Knowledge of all patient safety procedures. (d) Knowledge of radiographic producing equipment. (e) Ability to learn basic computer functions. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-7 Experience or Education: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, GS-6, that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level; or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging; or successful completion of an advanced registry program, with certification, in addition to a 4-year baccalaureate degree program in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging. Education may relate to the duties of a specific position or to the occupation but must be appropriate for the position being filled. AND Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: (a) Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system. (b) Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study. (c) Knowledge of radiation protection standards, minimum radiographic exposure techniques, appropriate beam limitation to anatomical area, and employing lead shielding when performing standard radiographic and fluoroscopic procedures. (d) Knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems. (e) Knowledge of PACS and basic computer skills. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-8 Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, GS-7, that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. AND Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: (a) Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines. (b) Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. (c) Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. (d) Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed. (e) Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. (f) Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest References: VA Handbook 5005/119, PART II, APPENDIX G25 Preferred experience: ARRT certified with BLS-CPR The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-5 to GS-8. ["***Highly qualified candidates may be eligible for a recruitment incentive*** The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran. This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community. This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being. Duties include, but are not limited to: Receives/Interpret Exam Requests-Receives written requests or instructions for procedures. Interprets the requests or instructions from Radiologists or medical officer. Receives assignments for a variety of difficult examinations. Independently interprets and carries out the requests made by physicians. Supervision is often administrative only and employee may need to contact the Radiologist, the Ordering Physician for clarification, or to alter the order if the original order is not the most appropriate. Receives and instructs on the occasion for very difficult assignments or examinations. Employee understands and carries out the requests made by physicians or seeks assistance of the supervisor when an uncommon, unique or new procedure is required, or if clarification of the request is needed. Secures Patient Confidence/Cooperation-Secures the confidence and cooperation of patients during procedures. Independently explains procedures, positions the patient for optimal results, and cushions and shields patients as appropriate. Varies the procedure or positions to adjust for patient medical condition, and body habitus. Independently explains procedures and positions patients for very difficult procedures. Analyzes the patient needs, determines, and select the technical factor for optimum diagnostic quality, sets the controls and operates equipment. Performs quality control procedures as required and maintains an adequate level of supplies and safety equipment. Operates Radiology Equipment-Operates Direct Radiography (DR) equipment and Computerized Radiography (CR) equipment. Performs monthly as needed calibrations for the equipment along with running reports such as repeat analysis and patient tracking. Inputs CPT codes and update procedures on the equipment as needed. Independently performs all routine and specialized radiographic examinations of head, spine, trunk, G.I. track, urological system, and extremities for diagnosis of illness or injuries. Maintains supplies needed to perform all examinations in the assigned room or area. Cleans and sterilizes equipment and the area after each use and in preparation of the next procedure to be performed. Performs required routine maintenance and recognizes and reports malfunctioning equipment to ensure repair. Performs minor maintenance on equipment, and cleans equipment as needed. Cleans, makes minor repairs and adjustments to X-ray equipment and exam accessories. The technologist captures direct radiographic (DR) and computerized radiographs (CR), applies and algorithm, configures the image and verifies patient information before transmitting them to the picture archive system (PACS). This procedure requires the technologist to have a general knowledge to computer operations. Correct image manipulation and transmission of correct patient information and images is critical in DR CR and PACS. Lost data can only be recaptured by repeating the radiograph. Incorrect patient images, or patient information must be reported to the Supervisor, and the Technologist must fill out a patient misarchived form for documentation of the correction. Meets the needs of customers while supporting VA missions. Consistently communicates and treats customers (veteran, their representatives, visitors, and all VA staff) in a courteous, tactful, and respectful manner. Provides the customer with consistent information according to established policies and procedures. Handles conflict and problems in dealing with the customer constructively and appropriately. Work Schedule: Part-time; Monday, Thursday, and Friday, 0800-1630 Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,298 health care facilities, including 171 medical centers and 1,113 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.
