Providing Excellence in Eye Care: Ophthalmologist Career at the North Florida/South Georgia VA

The North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System is currently seeking a highly skilled and compassionate board-certified Ophthalmologist to join our dedicated team at The Villages, Florida. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide high-quality, specialized care to the men and women who have served our nation. With a focus on both surgical excellence and patient-centered diagnostics, you will play a pivotal role in maintaining the vision and ocular health of our Veteran population.

Job Responsibilities

As an Ophthalmologist with the VA, your primary duties will include:

Conducting comprehensive eye exams and ocular health screenings.
Diagnosing and treating cataracts and complex ocular disorders.
Performing surgical procedures, including phacoemulsification and IOL implantation.
Managing pre- and post-operative patient care with a focus on optimal recovery.
Collaborating with optometrists and surgical staff to provide cohesive treatment plans.
Contributing to the academic environment by mentoring residents and students.

Comparison: Private Practice vs. VA Ophthalmology

Feature	Private Practice	VA Healthcare System
Liability Protection	Professional policy required	Fully covered (including tail)
Patient Mission	Profit-driven	Veteran-centered
Benefits	Varies by employer	Robust Federal Benefits
Work Environment	High pressure/sales focus	Academic/Collaborative
Loan Forgiveness	Rarely available	EDRP (up to $200,000)

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Possession of a Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree.
Current, full, and unrestricted medical license.
Board Certification in Ophthalmology.
Successful completion of an accredited residency program.
Ability to pass a federal background investigation and drug screening.

Salary Overview

The compensation for this position is highly competitive, ranging from $251,283 to $400,000 per year, depending on qualifications and experience. This is complemented by regular performance-based increases and federal pay structures.

Benefits

Working with the VA means access to one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the healthcare sector, including:

Paid Time Off: 50-55 days annually (including leave, sick time, and holidays).
Retirement: Federal pension plus 401(k) with employer matching.
Education: Substantial student loan reimbursement via the EDRP.
Insurance: Full selection of federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.

Application Tips

Use the standard Clinical Resume document found on the VA careers website.
Ensure your CV clearly outlines your surgical volume and specialties.
Reach out to the agency contact if you have questions regarding your specific eligibility for EDRP.

If you are an Ophthalmologist looking to combine a high-level surgical practice with a meaningful mission, the North Florida/South Georgia VA system welcomes you. Apply today to help us care for those who have served.

Why This Physician (Ophthalmology) Job Matters

Join the VA healthcare team as an Ophthalmologist in The Villages, Florida, and make a profound impact on the lives of those who served our nation.

Physician (Ophthalmology) Job Overview

The North Florida/South Georgia VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated, board-certified Ophthalmologist to join our Surgical Care Service. Based at our outpatient clinic in The Villages, FL, this role is centered on delivering exceptional clinical care, including diagnostic assessments, surgical management of cataracts, and comprehensive eye health services. As part of a highly respected academic healthcare network, you will work within a collaborative environment that values professional development, research, and high-quality patient outcomes.

Requirements for Physician (Ophthalmology)

U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply for recruitment needs).
Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution.
Current, full, and unrestricted medical license to practice in any U.S. State or territory.
Completion of an ACGME or AOA-accredited residency in Ophthalmology.
Board Certification in Ophthalmology.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements.

Preferred Qualifications for Physician (Ophthalmology)

Surgical expertise in phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.
Experience in managing both anterior and posterior segment disorders.
Proven history of effective collaboration with multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
Interest in mentoring medical residents in an academic clinical setting.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive salary with regular performance-based increases.
✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
✓50-55 days of annual paid leave (Annual, Sick, and Federal Holidays).
✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance packages.
✓Federal 401k-style retirement plan with 5% matching.
✓Professional liability protection with tail coverage.
✓CME reimbursement opportunities.

💡 How to Apply Physician (Ophthalmology) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physician (Ophthalmology) Job

Log in or create a profile on the USAJOBS portal.
Prepare your CV and standard Clinical Resume Document.
Submit your application and required occupational questionnaire online.
Ensure all supporting documents, such as licensure proof and DD-214 (if applicable), are uploaded.
Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview invitations.

💡 General Tips

Utilize the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to avoid processing delays.
Ensure your license status is current and readily verifiable.
Highlight your surgical experience and academic involvement clearly in your CV.
If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure your DD-214 is the Member 4 copy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for loan repayment?

Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which may provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.

What is the expected work schedule?

The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, though flexibility may be required based on clinical needs.

Do I need a Florida-specific medical license?

No, you must hold a current, full, and unrestricted license from any U.S. State or territory.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare. Our North Florida/South Georgia system is a complex, academic-affiliated network that partners with leading institutions like the University of Florida College of Medicine. We prioritize research, innovation, and evidence-based practice to ensure our Veterans receive the best possible care. Joining our team means becoming part of a mission-driven organization that values professional growth and service.