Physician Careers: Join the Spinal Cord Injury Team in San Antonio
The South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS) is currently seeking a committed and skilled Staff Physician specializing in Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders (SCI/D). This role is vital to our mission of providing world-class, whole-person care to the men and women who have served in the United States military.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Physician, you will:
- Lead clinical evaluations in an outpatient setting.
- Supervise and mentor resident physicians.
- Perform specialized tests including EMG and injections.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams such as Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and neuropsychology.
- Participate in facility performance improvement and quality management initiatives.
Comparison: Standard Practice vs. VA Physician Role
| Feature | Standard Private Practice | VA Physician (STVHCS) |
|---|---|---|
| Malpractice | Paid by provider/employer | Provided by Federal Gov |
| Retirement | 401(k) typically | Federal Pension + 401(k) |
| Debt Relief | Rarely offered | Up to $200k via EDRP |
| Mission Focus | Financial viability | Veteran-centered care |
Requirements
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship required.
- Education: MD or DO from an accredited school.
- Licensure: Current, unrestricted state license.
- Residency: Completed accredited residency training.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary of $240,000 to $270,000 per year, supported by an exceptional federal benefits package including generous paid leave and federal insurance options.
Application Tips
- Use the standardized VA Clinical Resume template.
- Highlight board certifications.
- Submit your documents through the official portal ahead of the deadline.
If you are an experienced physician looking to transition into a mission-driven, highly supportive environment, we invite you to apply and help us continue the VA's legacy of excellence.
Why This Staff Physician (Sci/D Outpatient) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job Matters
Advance the standard of care for our nation's heroes while building a fulfilling medical career in the heart of Texas.
Staff Physician (Sci/D Outpatient) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job Overview
The South Texas Veterans Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Staff Physician to join our Spinal Cord Injury/Disorders (SCI/D) Service. This role offers the unique opportunity to provide high-impact, compassionate care to Veterans at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital in San Antonio. You will lead comprehensive patient assessments, supervise residents, and contribute to performance improvement initiatives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. With competitive compensation, loan repayment options, and extensive benefits, this position is designed for physicians committed to excellence in neuro-rehabilitation and holistic patient care.
Requirements for Staff Physician (Sci/D Outpatient) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply for non-citizens when qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution.
- Completion of an accredited residency program.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license in any U.S. State, Territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Physician (Sci/D Outpatient) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized
- Board Certification or eligibility in Neurology or Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
- Clinical experience in Neuro-Rehabilitation, Spinal Cord Medicine, or Musculoskeletal Medicine.
- Interest or experience in pain management or specialized rehabilitation sub-specialties.
- Demonstrated capability in resident supervision and academic teaching.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for student loans).
- ✓Competitive salary with annual performance bonus potential.
- ✓Generous paid time off: 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave annually.
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays.
- ✓Comprehensive federal insurance plans (health, dental, vision, long-term care).
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan and 401(k)-style retirement with 5% employer matching.
- ✓Free malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
💡 How to Apply Staff Physician (Sci/D Outpatient) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Physician (Sci/D Outpatient) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download the mandatory Clinical Resume template from the VA Careers website.
- Upload your resume, CV, and professional documentation.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure you upload the specific one-page Clinical Resume document into the two-page restricted 'Resume' field.
- Clearly outline your Board Certification status and relevant neuro-rehab experience.
- Federal employees should include a recent copy of their SF-50.
- If you are a veteran, provide your DD214 to receive appropriate hiring preference.
- Submit your application early, as the announcement may close once the position is filled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.
What is the work environment like at the South Texas Veterans Health Care System?
You will be working in a high-volume, tertiary care facility affiliated with UT Health San Antonio, serving a large veteran population with robust inpatient and outpatient programs.
Can I perform moonlighting while employed here?
The VA generally allows for external professional practice provided it does not conflict with your primary duties or create ethical conflicts.
Is relocation assistance available?
Yes, recruitment or relocation incentives may be available for highly qualified candidates.
How do I manage my EDRP application?
You must submit your EDRP application within four months of your appointment date.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The STVHCS is a leading healthcare provider, managing two major inpatient campuses in San Antonio and Kerrville. As a teaching affiliate of UT Health San Antonio, we provide primary, secondary, and tertiary care across a vast 35-county region. We support critical centers, including a dedicated 30-bed Spinal Cord Injury Center and a Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center.