Advance Your Medical Career: Primary Care Physician Opportunity at the Iowa City VA
The Iowa City Veterans Affairs Health Care System (ICVAHCS) is currently seeking a highly qualified Primary Care Physician to join its team at the Coralville, IA clinic. This role offers more than just a job; it provides an opportunity to contribute to a 5-Star CMS-rated facility that prioritizes innovation, research, and patient-centered care. If you are looking to balance clinical excellence with a supportive, mission-driven environment, this may be the role for you.
Job Responsibilities
As a Primary Care Physician, your day-to-day work will center on:
- Managing clinical care for an assigned patient panel using VHA PCMM software.
- Delivering comprehensive outpatient medical services.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and mid-level providers.
- Ensuring timely and accurate medical documentation.
- Participating in special projects, such as addressing specific patient demographic needs or disease management.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree.
- Licensure: An active, full, and unrestricted medical license in any U.S. state or territory.
- Training: Completion of an accredited residency program (ACGME or AOA).
- Physical: Ability to pass a mandatory pre-employment physical exam.
Comparison of VA Benefits vs. Private Practice
| Feature | VA Physician Position | Typical Private Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Malpractice | Covered (Tail coverage included) | Often out-of-pocket |
| Pension | Federal Retirement System | Defined Contribution only |
| Paid Time Off | 50-55 Days/Year | Usually 15-25 Days |
| Loan Repayment | Up to $200k EDRP available | Limited/None |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive salary range of $250,000 to $315,000 per year. In addition to base pay, physicians receive regular salary increases and are eligible for performance bonuses. Recruitment or relocation incentives may be available for highly qualified candidates.
Benefits
Working for the VA comes with an industry-leading total rewards package, including:
- Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Federal 401k (Thrift Savings Plan) with matching.
- Generous leave policies, including sick and federal holidays.
- Reimbursement for Continuing Medical Education (CME).
Application Tips
- Follow the Resume Guidelines: Use the standard Clinical Resume document template linked in the official job posting.
- Don't Miss the Cut-offs: The first referral cut-off is July 9, 2026. Applying early increases your visibility.
- Double-Check Documents: Ensure your DD214 (if applicable) and medical licenses are current and attached correctly.
Serving as a Primary Care Physician at the Coralville VA Clinic provides a unique blend of community impact and professional autonomy. If you are prepared to join a team that values your expertise, apply today via the USAJOBS portal.
Why This Physician - Primary Care (Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized) Job Matters
Join the Iowa City VA Health Care System and shape the future of veteran primary care. With a competitive salary up to $315k, potential sign-on incentives, and a world-class academic environment, your career finds its true purpose here.
Physician - Primary Care (Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized) Job Overview
The Iowa City VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Primary Care Physician to join our outpatient clinic team in Coralville, Iowa. As a leading medical hub with a 5-Star CMS rating and strong ties to the University of Iowa, we offer an environment focused on Whole Health and clinical innovation. This role manages diverse patient panels, providing comprehensive care to those who have served our nation.
Requirements for Physician - Primary Care (Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply per VA policy).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited school.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license from any U.S. State or Territory.
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA accredited residency program.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Primary Care (Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized)
- Experience managing complex patient panels.
- Expertise in Whole Health delivery models.
- Academic or clinical research experience.
- Background in supervising mid-level providers.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive base salary with annual performance bonuses.
- ✓50-55 days of total paid time off (Annual, Sick, and Federal Holidays).
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k with matching contributions.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000.
- ✓Malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
- ✓CME reimbursement and dedicated professional development time.
💡 How to Apply Physician - Primary Care (Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Primary Care (Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized) Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume template provided on the VA Careers website.
- Upload the Clinical Resume to the 'Resume' section.
- Upload a full CV to the 'Other' documents section.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the referral cut-off dates.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your documentation is legible and complete to avoid disqualification.
- Submit your application before the initial cut-off date of July 9, 2026, for priority consideration.
- Clearly highlight your residency and licensing information in your CV.
- Follow the specific naming conventions for document uploads requested by the VA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an on-site clinical position based at the VA Clinic in Coralville, Iowa.
Are there opportunities for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers reimbursement up to $200,000 based on eligibility.
What is the expected schedule?
Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
What is the Whole Health approach?
It is a patient-centric model focusing on the veteran's life goals and well-being rather than just symptoms.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Yes, recruitment or relocation incentives are authorized for highly qualified candidates.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The ICVAHCS is a premier teaching hospital with strong academic ties to the University of Iowa. Serving over 50,000 veterans across Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, the agency is committed to the "Whole Health" system of care—a model that empowers both the provider and the patient to create personalized health plans. Being part of the VA means joining a network that truly honors those who have served our nation.