Mammography Technologist

Description

POSITION SUMMARY 

Under the clinical direction of a radiologist and general supervision of the Imaging Services Operations Manager, Imaging Operations Executive Director, and Mammography Supervisor performs radiographic, scanning and imaging procedures at a technical level not requiring constant supervision of technical detail. Performs a variety of technical procedures that require independent judgement with ingenuity and initiative to apply prescribed ionizing radiation for radiographic imaging, mammography imaging diagnosis, and treatment planning. Assumes responsibility for designated areas or procedures as required. The services should be provided with attention to detail and friendly guest services. Performs other related duties within the job classification or organization as necessary or as assigned by management.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Receive and follow directives and instructions from radiologists, the Imaging Services Operations Manager, Imaging Operations Executive Director, and Mammography Supervisor to properly perform position functions.
• Address all patients, staff, and visitors in a friendly, courteous, and professional manner.
• Provide personal, patient, and visitors with personal protective equipment in accordance with safety standards and policies/procedures/protocols set in place by Radiology Associates of Hartford and CDC guidelines.
• Operate radiographic and mammography scanning equipment and assist physicians/radiologists as appropriate in accordance with Connecticut General Statue Chapter 376C and established organizational policy.
• Calculate and select proper technical factors such as voltage, current, exposure time, and focal distance based on information such as patient age, physical condition, and suspected pathology.
• Operate mammographic and stereotactic breast biopsy (as required for the position).
• Advise patients prior to mammography procedure the importance of proper breast compression and inform patients when compression will be initiated, allow patients to take an active role in the amount of compression that can be tolerated without pain.
• Prepare and position patient for radiographic and fluoroscopic procedures, ensure patient modesty, confidentiality, and privacy.
• Follow established policies and procedures including radiation safety and universal precautions.
• Perform patient examinations according to physician’s orders as directed.
• Explain proper preparation to patients prior to procedure. Verify appropriate RX or VO to exam ordered per patient's history or diagnosis. Ensure routine exams are properly completed and accurate information such as patient demographics, account number, date of exam, date of birth, address, referring physician name, referring physician address, and correct CPT code for exam ordered.
• Provide personal, patient, patient family, and assisting staff protection in accordance with prescribed radiation and equipment safety standards and policies/procedures/protocols.
• Escort patient through procedures to prevent entry into unauthorized or restricted areas of facility and to protect the patient.
• Communicate effectively with referrals to ensure prompt and accurate ordering, completion of exam, and reporting via fax, written, and verbal means.
• Understand and have an ability to navigate through RAH technical protocols, commonly used forms, radiologist schedules, and requirements for annual training.
• Assist in reception area and has a general understanding of Patient Intake Coordinator workflow.
• Operate computer terminals, printers, and phone systems, including PACS, RIS, email.
• Contribute to and maintain good working rapport with all patients, personnel, and physicians/radiologists to ensure that the organization’s objectives can effectively meet the needs of patients and physicians.
• Assure that patient rights to fair and equitable treatment, self-determination, individuality, privacy, and civil rights are maintained.
• Maintain confidentiality of all classified and sensitive information and records, including patient care information, employee salary, wages, and benefits.
• Contribute to an atmosphere of warmth, personal interest, and positive emphasis throughout the organization.
• Assure formal introduction of self by name to all patients and address patient by name in a friendly, courteous, and professional manner. Assure treatment of all patients with warmth, dignity, and consideration.
• Report all unsafe, hazardous conditions, and defective equipment to supervisor immediately.
• Assure that assignment areas are maintained in a neat, safe, clean, and orderly fashion. Assist with laundry of patient gowns, sheets, and other linens.
• Assist with quality control duties and assignments as required.
• Attend and participate in in-service educational classes, seminars, staff meetings, and on-the-job training programs as required.? 
• Perform other related duties within the job classification or organization as necessary or as assigned by a radiologist, the Imaging Services Operations Manager, Imaging Operations Executive Director, and Mammography Tech Lead.
• Assist with training new employees as needed.
• Manage stressful and emergency situations with a calm, rational demeanor.
• Demonstrate the ability to set priorities and maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Adhere to and support company policies regarding dress code, smoking, meals, and rest breaks.
• Represent the company to the community in a positive manner.
• Maintain and compile records and reports as necessary.
• All other duties as assigned.

Requirements

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• Expert proficiency in operating digital mammography, 3D tomosynthesis, and stereotactic biopsy systems.
• Strong understanding of breast anatomy, breast pathology, and imaging characteristics across screening and diagnostic examinations.
• Comprehensive knowledge of MQSA, ACR, and state regulatory requirements.
• Skilled in advanced breast imaging procedures including:
• Spot compression and magnification views
• Stereotactic and ultrasound-guided biopsies (as department requires)

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Required: Graduate of an accredited radiologic technology program or equivalent hospital-based program.
• Required: Current ARRT and State of Connecticut certification to practice medical radiography.
• Required: Complete the required hours of continuing education per certification or annual period to satisfy State of Connecticut and federal requirements.
• Required: Completed required hours of continuing education per certification or annual period, as required by ACR, IAC, state, and federal regulatory agencies.
• Preferred: Mammography certification by ARRT is desirable for mammography techs.
• Required: CPR Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
• Preferred: 1-2 years of radiography experience in an outpatient setting.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position is based in a healthcare facility that provides patient care services in a fast-paced and team-oriented environment. Employees may work in various clinical or administrative areas depending on their role.

Radiology Associates of Hartford is an equal opportunity employer.