Sonographer I

Bassett Healthcare Network•Village of Cooperstown, NY

11d

About The Position

The Sonographer I conducts multi-specialty diagnostic ultrasound examinations according to departmental procedures and provides high-quality patient care. Working under the direction of the Supervisor of Medical Imaging, the role independently operates sonographic equipment, performs diagnostic examinations, and communicates examination results. The Sonographer I also supports daily operations of the sonographic work area, including patient scheduling, equipment maintenance and failure reporting, and quality assessment. Variable on-call shifts may be required depending on location and department staffing protocols. The role maintains professional and ethical standards, keeps current with developments in sonography and vascular technology, and supports quality assurance, accreditation, training, and implementation of new procedures. The Sonographer communicates respectfully with patients, families, physicians, and coworkers, explains examination procedures, documents relevant anatomy and pathology, prepares preliminary impressions for interpreting physicians, and completes electronic reporting and billing-related information. Occasional travel may be required.

Requirements

Completion of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) or Vascular Technology education.
ARDMS or RVT registration is required within two years of hire; registration must be in at least one of the listed specialties: Abdomen (AB), Ob/Gyn (OB), Vascular Technology (VT), or Breast Ultrasound (BR).
BLS certification must be obtained within 30 days of hire.
Skills in communication, computer use, customer service, clinical work, accuracy, and technical work.
Ability to meet the stated physical requirements, including medium work and frequent or constant specified physical activities.

Nice To Haves

Experience in general ultrasound, vascular ultrasound, or echocardiography.

Responsibilities

Conduct ultrasound examinations according to departmental procedures and ensure appropriate tests are ordered and examinations are performed.
Operate sonographic equipment independently and communicate diagnostic examination results.
Maintain the sonographic work area, patient schedule, equipment, supplies, and quality assessment activities; report equipment failures.
Follow safety precautions and maintain departmental equipment and materials to promote patient and staff comfort and safety.
Provide courteous, professional service to patients, families, physicians, nursing staff, and technical staff.
Assist with training and orientation of new Sonographers and participate in evaluation and training of current staff as assigned.
Contribute to implementation of new testing procedures, including demonstrations of studies and equipment.
Complete departmental financial responsibilities and support appropriate reimbursement for care.
Attend required meetings, participate in committees as needed, and review meeting minutes when unable to attend.
Maintain professional knowledge through continuing education, reference materials, and awareness of institutional and technical developments.
Contribute ideas to quality improvement and quality assurance and support leadership compliance efforts.
Assist with service space planning and needs in conjunction with the department supervisor.
Attend mandatory education programs and participate in review of written and visual materials.
Adhere to institutional policies, social media guidance, HIPAA guidelines, and professional conduct expectations.
Explain and reassure patients and accompanying family members about the examination process and protocol.
Document anatomy and pathology consistent with established protocols and prepare preliminary impressions to support the interpreting physician's final report.
Complete computer-generated reports and database entries using EMR, PACS, and other programs, including exam billing information.
Participate in quality assurance programs, accreditation requirements, collection of quality assurance data, and drafting or review of clinical protocols as assigned.
Perform similar or related duties as requested or directed.