Advance Your Career in Geriatric Psychiatry with the VA
Are you a compassionate psychiatrist dedicated to improving the lives of our nation's elderly Veterans? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in Durham, North Carolina, is looking for a qualified Geriatric Psychiatrist to join our clinical team. This role offers the unique opportunity to blend clinical practice with academic mentorship in a highly respected medical facility.
Job Responsibilities
As a Geriatric Psychiatrist, your primary focus will be providing diagnostic and therapeutic services to geriatric patients presenting with mental health concerns. Responsibilities include:
- Clinical Assessment: Performing thorough psychiatric evaluations for patients with age-related illnesses such as dementia, depression, and psychosis.
- Treatment Planning: Initiating timely therapeutic interventions and adjusting care plans based on patient progress.
- Crisis Management: Providing suicide risk assessments and emergency psychiatric intervention.
- Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Serving as a mental health team leader, collaborating with social workers, nurses, and primary care physicians to coordinate patient care.
- Teaching and Supervision: Actively participating in the psychiatric residency program by mentoring trainees and residents.
Requirements
You must meet the following baseline requirements to be considered for this position:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply for non-citizens under specific conditions).
- Education: A Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited school.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted medical license in any U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Residency: Completion of a residency program approved by the ACGME or AOA.
- Proficiency: Excellent written and spoken English skills.
Comparison of Benefits
| Benefit Feature | VA Offering | Private Sector Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Paid Time Off | 50-55 Days/Year | 20-30 Days/Year |
| Retirement | Pension + 401(k) Match | Variable 401(k) Only |
| Liability | Fully Covered | Often Paid by Physician |
| Student Loans | EDRP Assistance | Limited Assistance |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $270,000 to $285,000, commensurate with experience and performance. In addition to base pay, physicians may be eligible for annual performance bonuses and regular salary increases.
Benefits
Working for the VHA comes with a total rewards package that is difficult to beat. Beyond salary, you will receive:
- Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP): Potential for up to $200,000 in student loan repayment.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and long-term care plans.
- Stability: A traditional federal pension and a 401(k) retirement plan with federal matching.
- Liability Protection: Free medical malpractice protection, including tail coverage.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Follow these tips for a smooth process:
- Use the Required Template: Ensure you download and use the mandatory Clinical Resume Document provided by the VA.
- Highlight Geriatric Experience: Clearly emphasize any experience working with geriatric populations in your C.V.
- Track Your Application: Use the USAJOBS dashboard to monitor your status, and keep your email notifications enabled.
If you are looking for a career that combines clinical challenge with professional stability and a profound mission, the VHA is the place for you. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply and become part of our team in Durham.
Why This Psychiatrist - Geriatric Job Matters
Join a mission-driven team in Durham, NC, and provide essential geriatric psychiatric care to those who have served our nation. Competitive compensation and loan repayment assistance available.
Psychiatrist - Geriatric Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Geriatric Psychiatrist to join our clinical team in Durham, North Carolina. This role focuses on providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to elderly Veterans, addressing a range of age-related conditions including dementia, depression, and trauma-based symptoms. As a provider within our system, you will play a vital role in our multidisciplinary team, ensuring our Veterans receive the comprehensive, whole-health care they deserve.
Requirements for Psychiatrist - Geriatric
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply)
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license in a U.S. State or Territory
- Completion of an accredited residency program
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Must undergo a background and security investigation
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Psychiatrist - Geriatric
- Board Certification in Psychiatry
- Completed Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship
- Experience in geriatric clinical settings
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary and annual performance bonuses
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility
- ✓50-55 days of combined paid time off and holidays per year
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, and dental insurance
- ✓Federal 401(k) plan with up to 5% employer matching
- ✓Traditional federal pension program
- ✓Professional liability protection with tail coverage
- ✓Continuing Medical Education (CME) reimbursement opportunities
💡 How to Apply Psychiatrist - Geriatric Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychiatrist - Geriatric Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA link.
- Prepare your C.V. and supporting documents.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your documents to the appropriate fields within the application portal.
- Submit your final application package by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your geriatric psychiatric experience.
- Upload the required one-page Clinical Resume Document to the 'Resume' section.
- Double-check all documentation for accuracy to prevent processing delays.
- If you qualify for Veterans' Preference, ensure your DD214 is included.
- Apply well before the deadline, as the position may be filled early if a qualified candidate is identified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement for qualified applicants.
Can I work remotely?
This position is based in Durham, North Carolina, and requires onsite clinical presence; however, it is telework-eligible for certain administrative tasks.
Is board certification mandatory?
Board certification is preferred, but board-eligible candidates are welcome to apply.
What is the EDRP?
The Education Debt Reduction Program provides significant student loan debt relief to qualifying medical professionals working within the VHA.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Relocation incentives are not guaranteed but may be authorized for qualified applicants based on facility needs.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our military, as well as their families and survivors. The VHA is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, providing comprehensive, whole-health services to millions of Veterans. Joining our team means joining an organization that values innovation, evidence-based care, and the dignity of every patient.