The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) Picture Archival Communication System (PACS) Technologist provides support and troubleshoots system application issues and instructs users in the operation of digital image processing, storage, and display systems. The PACS technologist coordinates contingency plans during equipment and/or software downtimes, initiates repair requests, and provides training in the proper use of imaging hardware and software of the integrated PACS and VistA systems.

Duties

Major duties include, but are not limited to: Responsible for oversight, management, and troubleshooting daily operations of software utilized in Radiology, including but not limited to: Picture Archive and Communication System (PACS), voice recognition/dictation system (PowerScribe 360), VistA Imaging interface, and dose reporting software (Nexodose). Coordinates contingency plans during equipment and or software downtimes and initiates repair requests with appropriate services or vendors. Provides support and troubleshoots system application and hardware issues and instruct users in the proper operation of digital image processing, storage and display systems. Provides initial and ongoing training to Radiology staff and all user levels in the efficient use of imaging hardware and software of the integrated PACS system. Manages and coordinates system security to ensure that unauthorized personnel cannot access vital information either locally or remotely. Ensures timely and complete capture of image data into PACS/RIS as well as network transmissions, RIS validation, and exception handling. Updates the system configurations as new modalities, workstations, and RIS codes are added or changed. Repairs broken or corrupted studies; splits or merges studies as needed. Performs error corrections. Monitors incomplete exam reports daily and collaborates with technologists and/or Radiologists as appropriate to ensure timely completion of exams. Performs all Automated Data Processing Applications Coordinator (ADPAC) for the Radiology department, including user access control. Complies with all system and personnel security requirements. Provides advice and guidance to support staff on computer related access issues. Serves as the primary point of contact with National Teleradiology Program (NTP) and all distant teleradiology sites to coordinate Radiologist coverage and address any issues or concerns including but not limited to quality management and coordination of Radiologist coverage. Collaborates with local leadership to address any concerns. Assists in the importation of images from outside facilities into PACS and VistA Imaging. Prints copies of images for Release of Information (ROI), Care in the Community (CITC), and any other parties. Serves as the dedicated specialist for hardware and software relating to PACS infrastructure, functionality, display workstations, applications, voice recognition systems as well as other imaging equipment. Serves as a subject matter expert for all Radiology PACS issues in regards to strategic planning, EHRM updates and readiness. Collaborates with internal and external customers to ensure upgrades go smoothly and assists with troubleshooting concerns. Serves as a team lead during system upgrades for all Radiology staff as needed, both clinical and administrative. Ensures timely and complete capture of image data into PACS/RIS as well as network transmissions, RIS validation, and exception handling. This requires expert knowledge on the collection and compilation of data and reports from multiple sources. Updates the system configurations as new modalities, workstations, and RIS codes are added or changed. Repairs broken or corrupt studies; splits or merges studies as needed. Performs error corrections. Collects, quantifies, and maintains accurate records, as required by management, for quality assurance analysis, quality control, performance improvement, and other related purpose. Compiles quality concerns as noted by Radiologists, initiates investigation, and brings quality assurance issues to the attention of the Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Supervisory staff with possible solutions. Serves on the Radiology Quality subcommittee. Serves as the primary point of contact with National Teleradiology Program (NTP) and all distant teleradiology sites to coordinate Radiologist coverage and address any issues or concerns including but not limited to quality management, coordination of Radiologist coverage. Able to perform radiographic exams as accreditation permits. Able to adapt and consult with radiology supervisor and radiologist to ensure optimum image captures are obtained. Assists radiologists in examinations as appropriate. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 93208-0 & 93209-0 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

Requirements

Qualifications

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. 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. 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 and meet the criteria). Grade Determinations GS-10: You must have 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-09), which is directly related to the position to be filled. Examples of specialized experience include, but are not limited to: fully functional as an advanced DRT and carrying out assigned tasks independently; completing varying assignments including special and complex imaging procedures beyond the full performance level, clinical instruction, and basic QM type duties; knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs: i. Ability to provide support and troubleshoot system application and hardware issues and instruct users in the proper operation of digital image processing, storage and display systems. ii. Ability to perform VistA radiology, VistA imaging, and PACS support activities and general ADPAC duties including user access control. iii. Ability to initiate repair requests with appropriate services or vendors. iv. Knowledge of PACS system infrastructure and functionality. v. Ability to provide training to all user levels in the efficient use of imaging hardware and software of the integrated PACS system. vi. Knowledge of specific positioning, technique, and imaging procedures so he/she will be able to perform and reconcile image information correctly and efficiently during technical post processing and evaluation. Grade Determinations GS-11: You must have 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-10), which is directly related to the position to be filled. Examples of specialized experience include, but are not limited to: provides support and troubleshoots system application issues and instructs users in the proper operation of digital image processing, storage, and display systems; coordinates contingency plans during equipment downtimes and initiates repair requests with appropriate services or vendors; provides oversight of hardware relating to PACS display workstations, applications, speech recognition hardware, and other medical imaging hardware; provides training to radiologists, technologists, and other clients in the proper and efficient use of imaging hardware and software of the integrated PACS and VistA imaging systems; provides instruction and guidance in daily operations of the ancillary systems such as: speech recognition dictation, dose reporting systems, contrast reporting systems, etc. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs: i. Knowledge of contingency plans during equipment downtimes. ii. Ability to act as liaison for Radiology with biomedical engineering and OI&T. iii. Ability to develop methods and programs to evaluate, monitor, and maintain digital imaging and voice recognition systems. iv. Ability to lead a team of multidisciplinary members in accomplishing strategic planning and integration of PACS and network elements. v. Ability to perform complex system administrator functions such as: oversight of RIS (Hospital Information System/Radiology Information System) links, AE titles, individual and user group creation and access management, etc. vi. Knowledge of VA and other national guidelines pertaining to PACS network, VistA imaging, and database security. vii. Knowledge of specific positioning, technique, and imaging procedures so he/she will be able to perform and reconcile image information correctly and efficiently during technical post processing and evaluation. References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-10 to GS-11. Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work require extended periods of sitting, moderate walking, and standing. Work involves constant bending, crouching, lifting, twisting, and carrying moderately heavy items, usually less than 50lbs or moving equipment around for a short distance and/or pushing an equipment cart. The work requires pushing a wheelchair and stretcher patients. Positioning patients who are disabled requires considerable effort and working in awkward positions. Lifting totally incapacitated patients is done only with the help of lifts and/or other employees. The administrative work requires keen and sustained attention span and stress management over long hours. There is frequent use of a computer, keyboard, and display terminal.

Education

IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.

Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.

Contacts

• Address Battle Creek VA Medical Center 5500 Armstrong Road Battle Creek, MI 49037 US
• Name: Carol Phillips
• Phone: 765-251-1129
• Email: [email protected]