Mammography Technologist

About the role

• May be entitled to translation/bilingual, shift or other wage premiums as governed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement.

Job Summary

Under general supervision, operates dedicated and specialized mammography radiographic equipment; formulates; calculates techniques and positions patients to produce diagnostic images of human breast and associated tissue and related unusual changes for the use by physicians in making medical diagnosis.

Within the established and/or recognized scope of practice, uses independent judgement in critiquing radiographic and mammographic images, and take additional views as necessary. Makes members/patients and their needs a primary focus of ones actions; develops and sustains productive member/patient relationships. Actively seeks information to understand member/patient circumstances, problems, expectations, and needs.

Builds rapport and cooperative relationship with members/patients. Considers how actions or plans will affect members; responds quickly to meet member/patient needs and resolves problems.

Essential Responsibilities

• This position knows and complies with all Kaiser Permanente quality, safety, and emergency policies and procedures. Demonstrates quality and effectiveness in work habits and clinical practice in every interaction with patients, colleagues, providers, and leadership. Ensures patient safety in the preparation and provisioning of care related to but not limited to medications, procedures, infection prevention, fall prevention, including consistent use of two patient identifiers and procedural time outs. Reports safety hazards, accidents and incidents, and unsafe working conditions promptly.
• Instructs patient in a courteous manner regarding imaging procedures. Positions patients and operates mammographic equipment in a patient care setting for purposes of obtaining diagnostic quality screening mammographic images. Positions patients accurately, taking into consideration the sensitive nature of the exam and the patients response to compression. Communicates clearly, effectively, and appropriately at all times. Reviews images for accuracy and technical quality according to established standards and takes additional views as necessary. Submits images for interpretation by radiologist or designee. Practices ALARA principles and ensures proper radiation safety practices.
• Participates in scheduling of screening and follow up mammography exams and diagnostic breast imaging procedures, provides patient education, obtains informed consent as needed, documents appropriate information as required; practices sterile techniques and standard precautions.
• Utilizes Radiology Information System (RIS), Electronic Medical Records (EMR), Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) following established practice guidelines.
• Maintains a comprehensive knowledge of, and ability to perform or assist in performance of required mammography quality control for mammography equipment according to the requirements of Mammography Quality and Standards Act (MQSA).. Observes and complies with established quality assurance/quality control program, policies and procedures. Complies with all HIPAA requirements and regulations. Monitors the operating condition of the equipment and accessories. Contacts service engineer and promptly reports equipment malfunctions to supervisor. Documents all quality control as required for MQSA.
• Maintains inventory of supplies used, according to established levels.
• Communicates clearly, effectively and appropriately both verbally and with written communication. Demonstrates courteous and appropriate telephone skills. Considers the cognitive, physical, emotional and chronological maturation process in delivery of services to patients in the age group served.
• May work with students and may be required to work at the reception desk or on the phones to schedule appointments.
• Performs other duties as required.