The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist position is located within the Diagnostic and Therapeutic Imaging Service of the Atlanta VA Health Care System. 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. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). Certification: All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R). 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). Credentialing Standards: Public Law 97-35, the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75, Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and the Credentialing of Radiographic Personnel. Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field. Loss of Credential: An employee in this occupation who fails to obtain certification within two years, or who fails to maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of employment. May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).* Grade Determinations: 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. 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/Part II G25, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard GS-0647. Physical Requirements: The physical demand of the work includes Heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds; pushing up to 4 hours; reaching above shoulder; use of fingers, good dexterity (both hands required); prolonged walking, prolonged standing; repeated bending; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20; ability to distinguish basic colors; hearing aid permitted; speed in working; and emotional stability. ["Major duties include, but are not limited to: Producing radiographic studies that are used in medical diagnosis and interpreted by medical officers and radiologists to locate injuries, foreign bodies, pathological conditions, or lesions within the body. Assisting the radiologists or staff physicians to perform fluoroscopy and more complex procedures, such as hysterosalpingogram, arthrograms, joint aspirations, lumbar punctures, myelograms, and sialo grams. Preparing and administering contrast media and medications in accordance with JCAHO, Local, State and Federal regulations. Operating fixed and portable radiology equipment, as well as computer software to produce quality images. Developing training programs for new technologists, physicians, residents, students, and general clinical staff in the General Diagnostic Section when necessary. Participating in lectures and demonstrating relating to the technical and clinical operations of Diagnostic Radiology when necessary. Reviewing textbooks, medical/technical journals, and attending continuing education seminars to Improve and develop new methodologies and technologies. Other tasks as assigned by management. Work Schedule: 8:00am-4:30pm, Monday-Friday Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #:53487F, 53488F, 53486F, 53281F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not 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.
