This position serves as the Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography) at the Orlando VA Medical Center with the Radiology Department. The radiographic goal of CT scan is to provide an axial view at as small as sub-millimeter spacing to provide information and generate the best possible reproducible quality image at the minimal radiation dose necessary to give adequate image information for diagnosis. 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 asrequired 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). Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging(MRI), [or Mammography (M) duties performed independently, as applicable]. Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination. In modalities that require advanced certification, to support their continued development, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist. 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. Grade Determinations: Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-08), directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Examples of GS-08 level experience includes, but is not limited to: Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines. Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed. Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-09. Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. ["Perform CT/DRT imaging of the spine, head and neck studies utilizing specialized sequences to visualize the anatomy and pathology necessary for diagnosis. Perform imaging of the peripheral and visceral vessels through CT/DRT angiography of the abdominal systems and extremities. Adhere to hospital infection control and safety policies/techniques with emphasis on sterile technique; the storage of the sterile supplies; the disposal of body fluids and sharps; proper attire; hand washing practices; and continuing education. Prepare contrast materials that are used in CT, CTA, angiography, and other exams. Responsible for providing a teamwork environment with Radiologist, fellow technologist, and all other personnel that they are interacting with daily to facilitate pertinent information to ensure the success of the CT/DRT section. Work with schedules to assure timely accomplishment of assigned workload, making day-to-day adjustments in accordance with established priorities and additional assignments. Practice safety to reduce injury to patients, staff, and self. Responsible for always maintaining adequate supplies in section. Confer with radiologist to determine requirement of non-standard exams. Perform reconstructions of CT, and angiographic studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure. Maintain records and files of exams performed on patients. Continually review new development in the field of angiography and computerized tomography. Receive and interpret all radiology request. Input pertinent radiology information into computer systems. Work Schedule: Saturday/Sunday 12am-12pm; Monday/Tuesday 9am-530pm. On-Call and Holidays required. Telework: ADHOC for emergency purposes Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 80499F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized ****OCHCO Bulletin Subject: Annual Determination of Staffing Shortages, dated October 1, 2024. Although hybrid title 38 occupations follow title 5 Veterans' preference rules, as required by the Merit Systems Protection Board (Graves v. VA, 117 M.S.P.R. 697 (2012)), 38 U.S.C. § 7412 waives the requirement to apply Veterans' preference to external applicants for appointments made during the fiscal year to hybrid title 38 occupations among those reported to have the largest staffing shortages."]
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing care at 1,321 health care facilities, including 172 VA Medical Centers and 1,138 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics) to over 9 million Veterans enrolled in the VA health care program. VHA Medical Centers provide a wide range of services including traditional hospital-based services such as surgery, critical care, mental health, orthopedics, pharmacy, radiology and physical therapy. In addition, most of our medical centers offer additional medical and surgical specialty services including audiology & speech pathology, dermatology, dental, geriatrics, neurology, oncology, podiatry, prosthetics, urology, and vision care. Some medical centers also offer advanced services such as organ transplants and plastic surgery.
