Embark on a Rewarding Healthcare Career with the Indian Health Service
Are you a dedicated Physician Assistant (PA) ready to take your clinical practice to the next level? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking passionate medical professionals to provide high-quality, patient-centered care to American Indian and Alaska Native communities across the United States. This role offers more than just a job; it is a chance to advocate for health equity while working in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
About the Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service is an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services that provides comprehensive health care to over 2 million American Indians and Alaska Natives. Our interdisciplinary teams are characterized by their compassion, creativity, and commitment to addressing complex health disparities. Whether you are working in a bustling clinic or a remote facility, your work will directly influence the well-being of the communities we serve.
Role Overview and Responsibilities
Physician Assistants with the IHS are vital components of the care team. Your primary responsibilities will include:
- Conducting detailed patient histories and physical examinations.
- Diagnosing and managing both acute and chronic illnesses.
- Formulating and implementing individualized treatment plans.
- Ordering, performing, and interpreting diagnostic tests.
- Providing preventative healthcare education and counseling.
- Collaborating with physicians and specialists to ensure continuity of care.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Grade Level | Focus Area | Required Experience/Education |
|---|---|---|
| GS-09 | Entry-level clinical practice | Master’s degree or 1 year equivalent experience |
| GS-11 | Mid-level clinical autonomy | Doctorate/PhD or 1 year at GS-09 level |
| GS-12 | Advanced clinical management | 1 year at GS-11 level |
Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered for these positions, candidates must meet the foundational requirements set forth by the federal government:
- Educational Attainment: Graduation from an ARC-PA accredited Physician Assistant program.
- Certification: Successful completion of the NCCPA examination and current maintenance of certification.
- Licensure: A current, active, and unrestricted state medical license.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Salary and Benefits
The IHS provides a robust compensation package designed to support both your professional and personal life. Salaries for this announcement range from $110,727 to $164,017, depending on experience and location. Benefits include:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System.
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Potential for recruitment or relocation bonuses.
- Eligibility for competitive student loan repayment programs.
Tips for Your Application
Navigating the federal application process can seem daunting, but preparation is key. Ensure your resume highlights specific clinical achievements, clearly states the hours worked per week, and includes all relevant certifications. Be sure to complete the USA Hire assessments promptly, as failure to do so will result in an ineligible status. Take advantage of the "Track this application" feature in your USAJobs account to stay informed at every stage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the promotion potential for these roles? A: Many positions offer promotion potential up to the GS-12 level, though this varies by duty location and management discretion.
Q: Is on-call work required? A: Yes, depending on the specific facility and staffing needs, some positions may require on-call or standby duty, as well as rotating shifts.
Serving with the Indian Health Service provides a unique opportunity to challenge yourself clinically while making a tangible impact on the lives of those who need it most. If you are ready to combine your clinical expertise with a spirit of service, we encourage you to apply today and become part of a team dedicated to improving health outcomes for indigenous communities nationwide.
Why This Physician Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the health and wellness of American Indian and Alaska Native communities as a Physician Assistant with the Indian Health Service.
Physician Assistant Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking dedicated, compassionate Physician Assistants to join our interdisciplinary teams nationwide. In this role, you will provide comprehensive outpatient care, manage chronic illnesses, and lead preventative health initiatives. This is an opportunity to practice medicine with a purpose, serving diverse populations while growing your career in a dynamic, supportive environment. Recruitment or relocation incentives may be available for qualified candidates.
Requirements for Physician Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must possess a current, active, full, and unrestricted license as a Physician Assistant.
- Graduate of an ARC-PA accredited Physician Assistant program.
- Successful completion of the NCCPA certification examination.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain clinical privileges.
- Subject to a federal background investigation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician Assistant
- Clinical experience in an outpatient or primary care setting.
- Demonstrated ability to formulate and implement effective patient treatment plans.
- Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with interdisciplinary medical teams.
- Experience working with medically underserved or culturally diverse populations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance and life insurance programs
- ✓Retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation bonuses
- ✓Eligibility for student loan repayment programs (competitive basis)
- ✓Professional development and CME opportunities
💡 How to Apply Physician Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician Assistant Job
- Create a profile on the USAJobs portal.
- Upload your resume and all required supporting documents.
- Select your preferred geographic locations (maximum of 5).
- Submit your application and complete the required USA Hire assessments.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJobs account.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details duties and hours worked per week for each position.
- Attach your NCCPA certification and state medical license documents.
- Complete the USA Hire assessments as soon as you receive the notification link.
- Verify your eligibility documents (like Form BIA-4432) if claiming Indian preference.
- Double-check that your application is submitted before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
Most positions under this announcement are permanent, though the agency may occasionally fill term or temporary appointments.
Can I apply if I am still in my PA program?
Candidates expected to complete their education and licensure within 9 months may be deemed tentatively qualified.
Does this role offer loan repayment?
Yes, IHS participates in competitive student loan repayment programs subject to agency funding and priorities.