Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

Overview

Independently performs routine to moderately complex radiographic exams. These exams are achieved by using diagnostic x-ray equipment such as fluoroscopic units, direct digital units, C-arms and portable machines. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment.

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.

• United States Citizenship:
  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 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).
  
  NOTE:
  
  Assignment to the clinical program director requires meeting JRCERT minimum educational standards as noted in the assignment description
• Grandfathering Provision:
  All persons employed in VHA as a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) on the effective date of this qualification standard are considered to have met all qualification requirements for the title-series and grade held, including positive education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the DRT occupation
• Note:
  
  Each uncertified VHA DRT who was permanently employed on June 21, 1986, and whose competence in the safe administration of ionizing radiation was affirmed in writing by a VA licensed physician not later than January 1, 1987, is considered fully qualified
• These employees may be promoted, changed to lower grade, or reassigned within the GS-0647 occupational series
• Any employee initially retained in this manner who leaves this job series loses protected status and must meet the full requirements in effect at the time of reentry
• Physical Requirements:
  
  See VA Directive and Handbook 5019
• 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 Qualification Standard for this occupation
• Grade Determinations: GS-8 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist
• Experience:
  
  At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
• Demonstrated KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities):
• 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 patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers
• Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, 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 -…