The position of Health Technician is established to provide support in a wide variety of basic clinical and intermediate level administrative activities. The incumbent must ensure compliance with VA regulations, JCAHO standards and other regulatory agencies. To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement. GS-05 grade level: One year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-04 grade level in the federal service); experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities (KSA's) and other characteristics to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled, in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Specialized experience includes: Ability to plan effectively set priorities, coordinate activities, have a high degree of skill in oral and written communications, Knowledge of medical terminology and usage, signs, symbols, and approved abbreviations used with a variety of diagnostic treatments, Skilled in phlebotomy process for venipuncture and pre and post patient care requirements. The incumbent will be required to possess a thorough working knowledge of medical administration policies and procedures in all of the following areas:(1) Venipuncture, (2) Outpatient Scheduling, (3) Electrocardiograms, (4) VISTA applications for all administrative, clinical and ancillary services, (5) Retrieval of health information in a paperless environment. (6) Privacy Act and Freedom of Information Act. OR Education: Applicants may substitute education for the required experience. To qualify based on education for this grade level you must have successful completion of a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree, with major study or at least 24 semester hours in subjects directly related to the position. (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED) . OR Combination: Applicants may also combine education and experience to qualify at this level. You must have an combination of specialized experience and education. To calculate, first identify the percentage of required education you have earned (when substituting, you cannot use the first 60 semester hours that you earned). Then identify the percentage of required experience you possess. Add the two percentages. The total percentage must equal at least 100 percent to qualify at the GS-XX. For example, an applicant who has 9 semester hours of graduate level education (i.e. 50% of graduate education required) and 6 months of creditable specialized experience (i.e. 50% of the required experience) would equal 100% of the required experience for the position A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. ["Knowledge of direct patient care techniques including ambulating patients, infection control and emergency response; uses appropriate safety precautions. Recognizes changes in patient condition and takes appropriate actions in response to the situation. Provides guidance and support to staff regarding infection control and patient safety protocol. Provides emotional support to patients before, during and after lab draws. Uses proper specimen collection techniques (phlebotomy/venipuncture, finger sticks, urine, sputum, tissue, etc.); selects appropriate site for sample collection to minimize patient discomfort; monitors patients for adverse reactions. Collects, labels and sends laboratory specimens as ordered according to policy and procedure. Performs urine dipsticks testing and properly documents results according to policy and procedure. Greets and assists arriving patients/families/visitors and directs them to the appropriate treatment area. Uses sound judgment to work with the RN staff to prioritize patients with acute medical needs and institutes timely interventions. The use of computerized charting and computer systems as well as paper documentation for documentation and work accomplished as well as continued required learning. Is responsible for safeguarding patient records during visit in accordance with the Privacy Act and Medical Center Policies. Assists with answering phone and placing calls/pages and sending emails on behalf of the veteran as needed. Meets needs of the Veteran and family and provide information and assistance and always treats the Veteran and family with respect. Orders and maintains supplies for the department. Attends and participates in in-service/training opportunities in order to plan high quality patient care. Work Schedule: Monday thru Friday, 7:30am - 4:00pm\nPosition Description Title/PD#: Health Technician/ PD07486A\nPhysical Requirements: The work is performed in a Primary Care Service Line Clinical area. This includes a variety of potential extended periods of sitting, walking, standing, carrying of items weighing up to 20 pounds. In general the work does not require special physical demands."]