Lead Veteran Healthcare: Director of Primary Care Position in Missouri
Are you a physician looking for a role that marries clinical excellence with system-wide leadership? The John J. Pershing VAMC in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, is currently seeking a dynamic Director of Primary Care. This is a rare opportunity to influence healthcare delivery for those who have served our nation while continuing to practice medicine in a supportive, mission-focused environment.
Job Responsibilities
The Director of Primary Care serves as a key clinical leader. Key responsibilities include:
- Operational Oversight: Managing day-to-day operations for providers within the medical center and associated Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs).
- Clinical Performance: Monitoring and improving clinical quality metrics and ensuring compliance with TJC standards.
- Patient Access: Implementing strategies to optimize clinic access and flow.
- Clinical Practice: Maintaining clinical proficiency by spending at least 50% of your time in active patient care.
- EHR Leadership: Acting as the Physician Champion for the transition to the new Electronic Health Record system (EHRM/Cerner).
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Valid, unrestricted medical license in the U.S.
- Graduate of an accredited medical or osteopathic school.
- Completion of an approved residency program.
- 3-5 years of experience in a primary care environment.
- Ability to pass a federal background check and physical.
Salary & Benefits Overview
The position offers a highly competitive salary range and a comprehensive federal benefits package designed for long-term career stability.
| Benefit Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $260,000 - $275,000/year |
| Loan Repayment | EDRP (up to $200k) available |
| Paid Time Off | ~50-55 days per year |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 401k with 5% match |
| Malpractice | Free liability protection included |
Why Poplar Bluff, Missouri?
Located in the beautiful Missouri Ozarks, Poplar Bluff offers a high quality of life with an affordable cost of living. It is an ideal location for those who enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and kayaking, all while benefiting from a tight-knit community that truly appreciates its physicians.
Application Tips
- Standardized Resume: Use the link provided in the official job posting to download the mandatory clinical resume template.
- Highlight Leadership: Clearly articulate your experiences with process improvement and team management in your CV.
- Prepare for Verification: Have your board certifications and state licenses ready for the credentialing process.
Serving our Veterans is a deeply rewarding career choice. If you are a compassionate leader ready to make a significant difference in the Missouri healthcare landscape, apply for the Director of Primary Care position today.
Why This Director Of Primary Care Job Matters
Lead with purpose in the Missouri Ozarks: Advance your clinical career while shaping the future of Primary Care for our nation's Veterans.
Director Of Primary Care Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Director of Primary Care to join the John J. Pershing VAMC in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. This pivotal role balances high-impact clinical leadership with hands-on patient care. You will oversee provider operations, clinical quality, and access initiatives across the medical center and associated outpatient clinics. Join a mission-driven organization where your expertise directly improves the lives of those who served our country.
Requirements for Director Of Primary Care
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply under specific VA policy).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical or surgical license in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA accredited residency training program.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience practicing in a primary care setting.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Director Of Primary Care
- Formal leadership training.
- Prior experience in a clinical leadership role.
- Knowledge of system redesign and hospital flow optimization.
- Experience with electronic health record systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with annual performance bonus potential.
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000.
- ✓Physician/Provider Contract Buy Out Program (CBOP) eligibility.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Federal 401k retirement plan with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 55 days annually, including holidays and sick leave).
- ✓Professional liability protection with tail coverage.
- ✓CME reimbursement opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Director Of Primary Care Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Director Of Primary Care Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your CV and the required standardized clinical resume document.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the online portal.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including professional credentials.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of October 16, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your leadership experience and clinical background.
- Use the provided VA clinical resume template to ensure your application meets all technical formatting requirements.
- Double-check that all credentialing documents are current and accurately reflect your training.
- Apply well before the deadline to account for any technical issues.
- Reach out to the listed agency contact if you require an alternative submission method due to accessibility needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which may provide reimbursement for qualifying student loans up to $200,000.
What is the clinical vs. administrative split for this role?
The Director of Primary Care is expected to maintain clinical proficiency by practicing in their discipline at least 50% of the time.
Does the VA offer relocation assistance?
Relocation assistance is not explicitly noted as available for this specific vacancy, but interested candidates should consult with the hiring office regarding current recruitment incentives.
Do I need to be Board Certified?
Residency completion is required; board certification may be necessary for faculty status if involved in academic programs.
What is the work schedule?
The position is standard Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln to care for those who have served in the military. Working at the VA offers more than just a job; it is a commitment to providing world-class, whole-health care to our Veterans. As part of the Veterans Health Administration, you will join a multidisciplinary team that values patient-centered outcomes over corporate metrics like RVUs.