Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist; Computed Tomography

Summary

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography) position will report to the Radiology Service within the Memphis VA Medical Center and perform computerized tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest, and body. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment. Incumbent will be required to work variable shifts. On‑call may be required. Incumbent may be required to work different modalities.

Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.

• Must be U.S. citizen:
  Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy
• 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.] 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
• For grade levels above the entry level – the candidate must be certified
• Temporary appointments of non‑certified DRTs may not be extended beyond two years or converted to a new temporary appointment
• 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)
• 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
• English Language Proficiency
• DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d) – and 7407(d)
• May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA…