Location: Asheville, North Carolina, North Carolina
Salary: Open
Categories:
Allied Health
Internal Number: 788712700
The DRT(MRI) technologist operates an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scanner to acquire diagnostic images of patients to enable the diagnosis of disease and to guide patient management. The MRI technologist has primary responsibility to ensure that MRI safety principles are applied in the environment and with patient care. Exam requests are screened for appropriateness and reviewed with a radiologist as needed. To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of the announcement. 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 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).] 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 (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation). 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: In addition to meeting the basic requirements above, the following criteria must be met to be minimally qualified: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE FOR GS-9 LEVEL: Completion of 1 year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS-8), that is directly related to the position to be filled and that demonstrates possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities and other characteristics needed to provide services as a diagnostic radiologic technologist. Preferred Experience: Two years or greater experience as registered MRI technologist. Physical Requirements: Frequent standing, walking, grasping, carrying, reaching, bending, stooping and speaking. Lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling up to 25 pounds. Frequent use of computer keyboard and phone. Precise control of power-assisted equipment and devices. ["Major Duties: Receive patients, confirm patient identification, obtain patient history, provide patient education, provide reassurance and ensure patient comfort. Review exam requests for appropriateness before performing exams. Use appropriateness criteria, the clinical history provided on the request, patient interview, chart review or contact with the ordering clinician to clarify as needed. Apply principles of customer service and whole health to promote a positive patient experience. Practice strict adherence to MRI safety principles. Perform safety screening of all patients, visitors and staff entering zones III and IV. Perform the technical operations to acquire diagnostic MRI images--operate the MRI scanner controls and apply radiofrequency coils and other associated devices and supplies. Establish venous access using a sheath-needle type angio-catheter employing sterile technique. Apply infection control practices, including knowledge of modes of transmission, levels of precautions and preventive measures. The incumbent reports to the Supervisor MIT (MRI)/MRI Safety Officer, who manages immediate operations such as workflow, work assignments, breaks and lunches, technical and MRI safety consultation, troubleshooting and other facets of operations management. Work assignments include data collection for performance improvement, equipment QC, exam tracking and audits and other administrative duties assigned by the Supervisor MIT (MRI)/MRI Safety Officer. The incumbent is responsible to perform work assignments with required accuracy and timeliness, and to solicit guidance and clarification as needed. Work Schedule: Intermittent Virtual: This is not a virtual position."]
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.
