Advance Your Medical Career: Primary Care Physician Opportunities in Tennessee

Are you a dedicated physician looking to make a lasting difference in the lives of our nation’s heroes? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a committed Primary Care Physician to join the team at the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center in Johnson City, Tennessee. This role provides an exceptional opportunity to practice in a supportive, mission-focused environment that prioritizes whole-health care and professional development.

Job Responsibilities

As a Primary Care Physician, your primary duty is to provide continuity of care to a defined panel of patients. You will work under the guidance of the Chief Medical Officer and collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams. Key tasks include:

Maintaining clinical proficiency using the Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS).
Fostering a safe, inclusive environment for both patients and staff.
Developing long-term clinical relationships with veterans.
Contributing to the overall mission, vision, and values of the James H. Quillen VAMC.

Requirements

To be considered for this vital position, candidates must meet specific criteria:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required (exceptions apply only under specific recruitment conditions).
Education: A valid MD or DO degree from an accredited institution.
Licensure: You must hold a full, unrestricted state medical license.
Training: Completion of an ACGME or AOA-approved residency.
Compliance: Ability to pass drug testing and a security background check.

Comparison: Why Choose the VA?

Feature	Private Practice	VA Physician Role
Liability Protection	Paid by individual	Free with tail coverage
Retirement	Varies	Federal Pension + 401K
Student Loans	Limited assistance	EDRP (up to $200k)
Patient Load	High administrative burden	Supported by clinical staff

Salary and Benefits

Physicians at the VA are rewarded with a competitive salary ranging from $220,000 to $245,500 annually. Beyond the base pay, the total rewards package is designed for longevity and well-being:

Time Off: Over 50 days of combined annual, sick, and federal holiday leave.
Insurance: Access to comprehensive federal health, dental, and life insurance.
Professional Support: Potential for $1,000 in annual CME reimbursement and performance-based salary increases.

Application Tips

Use the Template: Always download and use the official Clinical Resume document provided by the VA.
Highlight Volunteerism: Ensure your resume includes all paid and volunteer clinical experience.
Stay Proactive: Check your email frequently, as the hiring team reviews applications every two weeks.

If you are ready to combine professional excellence with a high quality of life in Johnson City, Tennessee, this is your opportunity. Apply now through USAJOBS and take the next step in a rewarding career supporting our veterans.

Why This Physician (Primary Care) Job Matters

Join the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation in the heart of beautiful East Tennessee.

Physician (Primary Care) Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Physician to serve as a Primary Care provider at the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center in Mountain Home, TN. This role offers the opportunity to practice in a collaborative, mission-driven environment focused on whole-health care. You will manage a defined panel of patients, utilize advanced clinical record systems, and benefit from a competitive total rewards package in a region known for its natural beauty, affordable cost of living, and vibrant local culture.

Requirements for Physician (Primary Care)

United States Citizenship (with limited exceptions).
Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited school.
Current, full, and unrestricted medical license in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
Completion of an accredited residency training program (ACGME or AOA).
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Submission of mandatory immunization records, including annual influenza vaccination.
Successful completion of a background and security investigation.

Preferred Qualifications for Physician (Primary Care)

Board eligibility or certification in Family Practice or Internal Medicine.
Previous professional experience within the Veterans Health Administration system.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive annual salary with performance-based bonuses
✓Generous leave package: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays
✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans
✓Traditional federal pension plan and 401k-style thrift savings plan
✓Professional liability protection with tail coverage
✓Annual CME reimbursement opportunities

💡 How to Apply Physician (Primary Care) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physician (Primary Care) Job

Create or sign into your USAJOBS account.
Download the mandatory Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
Upload your standard CV and the Clinical Resume document.
Complete the occupational questionnaire.
Submit your application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
Monitor your email for status notifications regarding your referral.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly details your clinical experience, as credit is given for both paid and volunteer work.
Veterans should upload their DD214 and any relevant SF-15 documentation early to ensure eligibility for preference.
Use the specific 'Clinical Resume' template provided by the VA to avoid processing delays.
Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?

Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP. Interested candidates must submit an application within four months of their appointment to be reviewed by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services.

Can I hold a second job while working for the VA?

The VA does not typically impose significant restrictions on moonlighting for physicians, provided it does not interfere with your primary clinical duties.

What is the work schedule for this position?

This is a full-time, Monday through Friday position, generally scheduled from 7:45 AM to 4:30 PM.

What is the EDRP?

*A: The Education Debt Reduction Program provides up to $200,000 in student loan repayment for qualified physicians.*

Is relocation assistance offered?

*A: This specific position does not include relocation incentives.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military and their families. At the Mountain Home, TN facility, you will join a high-reliability organization dedicated to transforming health care from a transactional experience into a relational journey.