Become a Primary Care Physician with the VA
Are you a dedicated medical professional looking to make a profound difference in the lives of those who have served our country? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) within the South Central VA Health Care Network (VISN 16) is actively recruiting for Primary Care Physicians. This is a unique opportunity to join a mission-driven organization that values your expertise, offers competitive compensation, and provides a stable, comprehensive benefits package.
Job Responsibilities
As a Primary Care Physician, your day-to-day work will center on enhancing the health of Veterans. Key duties include:
- Comprehensive Care: Managing chronic and complex diseases, including metabolic, respiratory, endocrine, and cardiovascular conditions.
- Diagnostics: Ordering, interpreting, and evaluating laboratory studies, EKGs, and radiographic procedures.
- Preventative Medicine: Leading health supervision visits, administering immunizations, and educating patients on lifestyle and wellness.
- Collaboration: Working closely with specialty clinics and multidisciplinary teams to ensure integrated care delivery.
Comparison: Benefits of VA Employment
| Benefit | Feature |
|---|---|
| Salary | $220,000 - $300,000 per year |
| Loan Repayment | EDRP up to $200,000 |
| Leave | 50-55 days total per year |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 401k match |
| Malpractice | Free liability protection provided |
Requirements
To qualify for this role, you must meet rigorous professional standards, including:
- Education: A medical or osteopathic degree from an accredited institution.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted medical license in the U.S.
- Residency: Completion of a residency program approved by the ACGME or AOA.
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is required (with rare policy-based exceptions).
- Language: Demonstrated proficiency in spoken and written English.
Application Tips
- Prepare Your Documents: Use the official VA Clinical Resume Document template provided on their careers site to ensure your application meets all technical requirements.
- Highlight Skills: Emphasize your experience in ambulatory settings and your ability to manage high-volume patient panels.
- Stay Updated: This is an open continuous announcement. We recommend submitting your application as early as possible, as the agency reviews applications at regular intervals.
Working for the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who have protected our freedom. If you have a passion for primary care and a desire for a rewarding career with exceptional benefits, we encourage you to apply to the VISN 16 network today.
Why This Physician - Primary Care Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the Veterans Health Administration as a Primary Care Physician.
Physician - Primary Care Job Overview
The South Central VA Health Care Network (VISN 16) is seeking dedicated Physicians to provide high-quality primary care to our Veterans. This is an open continuous announcement for positions across Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. You will provide comprehensive medical services, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to ensure our Veterans receive the best possible whole health care.
Requirements for Physician - Primary Care
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply only per VA policy).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license in a U.S. state, territory, or DC.
- Completed residency training in a core specialty.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation.
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Primary Care
- Board Certification or Eligibility with the American Board of Family Physicians (ABFP) or Internal Medicine (ABIM).
- Two or more years of recent clinical experience in a primary care setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000.
- ✓Generous PTO (26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Competitive salary with potential annual performance bonuses.
- ✓Comprehensive federal insurance plans (health, dental, vision, life).
- ✓Traditional federal pension and 401(k)-style thrift savings plan with agency match.
- ✓Liability protection with tail coverage.
- ✓Professional development and CME reimbursement support.
💡 How to Apply Physician - Primary Care Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Primary Care Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
- Upload the standard resume document and your full CV/resume.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume reflects all relevant volunteer and paid experience.
- If you are a veteran, include your DD214 and any necessary preference documentation (SF-15).
- Monitor your email for status notifications after submission.
- Apply early; even though the announcement is open until 2026, selections may be made as vacancies arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is not eligible for telework or virtual duty. Incumbents must be located within 50 miles of the facility.
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary range is between $220,000 and $300,000 per year, depending on qualifications and facility specifics.
Does the VA offer student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By working within the VHA, you become part of a network committed to providing compassionate, whole-health care to our nation’s heroes. VISN 16 operates across multiple states, including Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas, fostering a culture of teamwork, innovation, and patient-centered care.