Advance Your Career as a Psychiatrist with the Birmingham VA
Are you a compassionate psychiatrist looking to serve those who have served our nation? The Birmingham VA Health Care System is currently accepting applications for a Physician (Psychiatrist) to provide essential mental health services at our Guntersville Clinic. This position offers a rare blend of professional fulfillment, financial stability, and a robust benefits package that only a federal career can provide.
About the Birmingham VA Health Care System
The Birmingham VA Health Care System, part of the VA Southeast Network (VISN 07), is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for our veterans and their families. We offer a holistic, patient-centered approach to healthcare, and our psychiatric team plays a vital role in the recovery and well-being of our veteran population. We prioritize not just treatment, but the overall mental and emotional wellness of our patients.
Job Responsibilities
As a Psychiatrist at the Guntersville Clinic, your days will be dynamic and impactful. You will be responsible for:
- Conducting thorough diagnostic evaluations for adult veterans.
- Managing medications, including medication-assisted treatment for addiction.
- Facilitating both individual and group psychotherapy sessions.
- Providing inpatient consultation and liaison services.
- Utilizing cutting-edge technology, including video teleconferencing, to reach veterans in rural or off-site locations.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must possess:
- A Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy degree.
- An unrestricted, active medical license in any U.S. state or territory.
- Completion of an accredited residency program.
- Excellent proficiency in both written and spoken English.
Salary and Compensation Comparison
| Feature | VA Physician Benefits |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $270,000 - $315,000 |
| Student Loan Help | Up to $200,000 (EDRP) |
| Paid Time Off | 50-55 Days per Year |
| Malpractice | Free with Tail Coverage |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 401k |
Why Choose the VA?
The benefits package for VA physicians is second to none. Beyond a competitive salary, you will receive extensive paid time off, comprehensive federal health insurance options, and access to a stable retirement plan. Furthermore, the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) provides significant support to reduce the burden of student loans, allowing you to focus on what you do best: providing world-class care.
Application Tips
Success in your application begins with following directions. We highly recommend using the standard VA Clinical Resume template found on our careers page. Ensure your resume clearly details your past clinical work, particularly in mental health, to help our recruiters quickly identify your strengths.
Joining the VA isn't just a job; it’s a commitment to excellence and a tribute to the men and women who have defended our country. If you are ready to elevate your career while making a tangible difference, apply today through the USAJobs portal.
Why This Physician (Psychiatrist) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by providing compassionate, high-quality psychiatric care at the Birmingham VA Health Care System.
Physician (Psychiatrist) Job Overview
The Birmingham VA Health Care System is currently seeking a dedicated Physician (Psychiatrist) to join our team at the Guntersville Clinic. In this role, you will provide critical outpatient mental health services to Veterans and their families, ensuring they receive the comprehensive support they deserve. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage in diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy, while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams across multiple locations. We are looking for a board-eligible or board-certified professional who is committed to whole health care for our nation's heroes.
Requirements for Physician (Psychiatrist)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Degree of Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy from an accredited institution
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice medicine in any U.S. state or territory
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA-approved residency training program
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Passage of a pre-employment physical examination
- Ability to successfully complete a background and security investigation
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Physician (Psychiatrist)
- Board certification in Psychiatry
- Experience in addiction medicine and medication-assisted treatment
- Expertise in rTMS or other biological treatment modalities
- Experience in consultation-liaison psychiatry
- Comfort and proficiency with telehealth and video conferencing technologies
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive annual salary with performance-based bonuses
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including 401k with up to 5% agency match
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage
- ✓Generous leave package: 26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓Malpractice insurance with tail coverage
- ✓Professional development and CME reimbursement
- ✓Physician Contract Buy Out Program eligibility
💡 How to Apply Physician (Psychiatrist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician (Psychiatrist) Job
- Create or log into your account on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare your CV and ensure it aligns with the requested format.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, C.V., and any necessary supporting documentation.
- Submit your application package before the cutoff dates.
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to ensure your application meets formatting requirements.
- Ensure your license status is current and readily verifiable.
- Clearly highlight your experience with telehealth and specific psychiatric modalities in your resume.
- Apply early to be considered for the initial referral cut-off date.
- Review all eligibility criteria regarding Veterans' Preference if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan payment reimbursement up to $200,000 based on individual eligibility.
What is the typical work schedule for this role?
The position is generally Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with shared rotational on-call duties.
Can I hold a private practice while working here?
Yes, VA physicians generally have no significant restrictions on moonlighting, provided it does not interfere with official duties.
What is the hiring process timeline?
Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis with initial cut-offs. We aim for transparency and will notify applicants of their status via email.
Is relocation assistance offered?
While relocation is not currently offered for this specific role, we do offer a Physician Contract Buy Out Program for certain rural facilities.