Advance Your Career: Physician Opportunities at the Veterans Health Administration
The Central Alabama Veteran Health Care System is seeking a committed, compassionate physician to join our Primary Care team in Columbus, Georgia. If you are passionate about providing high-quality care to those who have defended our nation, this role offers a rare blend of professional autonomy, financial stability, and life-changing work.
Job Responsibilities
As a Primary Care Physician, your day-to-day work involves:
- Conducting comprehensive patient assessments and health histories.
- Developing diagnostic work-ups and treatment plans.
- Coordinating care within a multi-disciplinary team of nurses and specialists.
- Utilizing the electronic record system (CPRS) for documentation.
- Managing emergency health issues and initiating appropriate referrals.
Salary and Compensation Comparison
| Feature | VA Physician Position | Private Sector Average |
|---|---|---|
| Base Salary | Up to $315,000 | Variable |
| Malpractice | Fully Covered (Free) | Often Paid by Physician |
| Pension | Federal Pension | 401(k) only |
| Paid Time Off | Up to 55 days/year | 15-20 days/year |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Hold a valid degree from an accredited school of medicine or osteopathic medicine.
- Possess a full, unrestricted license to practice in any U.S. state.
- Have completed an accredited residency training program.
Benefits
Beyond a competitive salary, the VA offers a "Total Rewards" package designed for long-term career satisfaction. This includes the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), comprehensive health and dental insurance, a generous federal retirement plan, and an excellent balance of paid time off.
Application Tips
- Use the official Clinical Resume Document provided by the VA.
- Ensure your supporting documentation clearly demonstrates your professional history.
- Apply as early as possible to ensure your profile is fully vetted.
Serving as a Physician with the Veterans Health Administration in Columbus, Georgia, is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who have given so much. With excellent compensation, a clear work-life balance, and the support of a nationwide healthcare network, this is an ideal step for any physician ready to focus on what matters mostβpatient care.
Why This Physician (Regular Ft) Job Matters
Advance your medical career with a mission-driven organization while providing world-class care to our nation's heroes in vibrant Columbus, Georgia.
Physician (Regular Ft) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Physician to join the Central Alabama Veteran Health Care System. Based in Columbus, Georgia, you will provide comprehensive primary care services to Veterans, working within a multi-disciplinary team to deliver compassionate, evidence-based medical interventions. This role offers the unique opportunity to balance a rewarding clinical practice with the stability of a federal position, all while enjoying the cultural and economic benefits of a historic southern city.
Requirements for Physician (Regular Ft)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions only as permitted by VA policy).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice medicine or surgery in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA-accredited residency training program.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician (Regular Ft)
- Experience in primary care settings with multi-disciplinary teams.
- Demonstrated ability to manage diverse patient panels including both scheduled and unscheduled encounters.
- Expertise in electronic health record documentation (CPRS).
- Background in high-volume, customer-service-oriented clinical environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βCompetitive annual salary with performance-based bonus potential.
- βEducation Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000.
- βComprehensive federal insurance including health, vision, dental, and life coverage.
- βGenerous paid time off (up to 55 days annually, including holidays).
- βFederal pension plan and 401(k) with employer matching up to 5%.
- βFree malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
- βAnnual CME reimbursement opportunities.
π‘ How to Apply Physician (Regular Ft) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician (Regular Ft) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download the mandatory Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA link.
- Upload the standardized one-page Clinical Resume into the 'Resume' section.
- Upload your comprehensive CV/full resume into the 'Other' section.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
π‘ General Tips
- Do not modify the format of the required one-page Clinical Resume document; it must remain as provided.
- Ensure your CV clearly highlights your residency accreditation and independent practice history.
- Address all screening questions honestly to ensure eligibility validation.
- Monitor your email frequently for status updates regarding referral certificates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for qualified candidates.
What is the work schedule?
The position follows a standard, predictable schedule of 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
Can I moonlight while working for the VA?
Yes, there are generally no significant restrictions on outside moonlighting for VA physicians.
What is the patient population like?
You will care for a diverse panel of male and female Veterans requiring both routine primary care and acute intervention.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling the promise of President Lincoln: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military." Our Columbus clinic is a proud part of the VA Southeast Network, providing essential services to Veterans in a growing and historic community. We believe in innovation, research, and collaborative care.
