(December 20, 2006)

 

In order to further improve the lines of communication and to respond to the concerns between the National VA Council and you our members, I have established a National VA Council Briefing. This NVAC Briefing will bring you the latest news and developments within DVA and provide you with the current status of issues  this Council is currently addressing. I believe that this NVAC Briefing will greatly enhance the way in which we communicate and the way in which we share new information, keeping you better informed.

Alma L. Lee

National VA Council, President

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In This Briefing: Biomedical Engineering Technicians Survey

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OPM has directed the Department of Veterans Affairs to respond to their inquiry as to why the Department is using Biomedical Engineering Technicians (GS) to repair medical equipment, when OPM believes the proper classification should be Medical Equipment Repairer (WG).  VA has been directed to explain their classification process of the Biomedical Engineering Technicians.

The Department of Veterans Affairs has surveys in the field requesting that facilities provide information concerning the duties and responsibilities of Biomedical Engineering Technicians (GS).  Some facilities are now asking employees to provide information as to their duties and responsibilities through a survey.

The Department of Veterans Affairs has asked the National VA Council for help in providing information to sustain the Biomedical Engineering Technicians (GS).  The National VA Council is asking Locals to provide information concerning Biomedical Engineering Technicians duties and responsibilities in order to sustain the current GS classification.  Be sure you include everything you do as a Biomedical Technician, including supervised or non-supervised duties. 

 We have also discussed this with AFGE National Headquarters for help and support with this issue.