Advance Your Medical Career: Physician (Pathology) at the Defense Health Agency
Are you a board-certified pathologist looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with the honor of supporting our military community? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Physician (Pathology) to join the esteemed team at Brooke Army Medical Center in Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
Job Responsibilities
This position offers a diverse and engaging workload within a high-volume clinical environment. You will be instrumental in maintaining the highest standards of diagnostic accuracy and patient care. Key responsibilities include:
- Transfusion Services: Overseeing blood donations and the production of FDA-approved blood products.
- Expert Consultation: Providing pathological diagnoses and advising clinical staff on complex medical cases.
- Clinical Services: Performing duties related to surgical pathology, cytology, and autopsy services.
- Quality Improvement: Actively participating in laboratory standards and safety initiatives.
- Teaching: Mentoring and training physician residents, contributing to the next generation of medical specialists.
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent educational and professional standards to qualify for this role. Key requirements include:
- Education: A MD or DO degree from an accredited school in the United States or Canada.
- Licensure: A current, active, full, and unrestricted physician license.
- Training: At least one year of internship or residency, plus the completion of an accredited residency program specifically in Pathology.
- Citizenship: Proof of U.S. citizenship is required.
Comparison of Potential Perks
| Benefit Feature | Federal Physician Role |
|---|---|
| Malpractice Insurance | Covered by Federal Tort Claims Act |
| Salary Potential | $220,000 - $315,000 |
| Work-Life Balance | Structured Federal schedule |
| Career Impact | Support service members & families |
Salary Overview
The position offers a highly competitive salary range between $220,000 and $315,000 per year, inclusive of locality pay. The exact compensation is determined by an Activity Compensation Panel that assesses base pay and market factors following the receipt of an offer.
Benefits of Federal Employment
Working as a federal physician comes with distinct advantages, including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- FERS retirement planning options.
- Stability and access to professional development.
- Eligibility for potential recruitment or relocation incentives for elite candidates.
Application Tips
To ensure your application stands out, follow these critical steps:
- Respect the page limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will not be processed.
- Detail is vital: Include your employer name, job title, specific dates (month/year), and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Use clear language: Avoid technical jargon or acronyms that may be unfamiliar to HR staff.
- Proof of credentials: Ensure your license and transcripts are clear, scanned properly, and attached to your application package.
This role represents a unique intersection of clinical mastery and service. If you are prepared to bring your pathology expertise to a mission-driven organization, we encourage you to review the requirements and submit your application package before the closing date. Join us in sustaining the health of those who serve our nation.
Why This Physician (Pathology) Job Matters
Join a elite team of medical professionals at the prestigious Brooke Army Medical Center, providing life-saving pathology and transfusion services to our nation's heroes and their families.
Physician (Pathology) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Physician (Pathology) to join the team at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. This position involves delivering high-level clinical pathology, transfusion medicine, and surgical pathology services within an integrated, world-class healthcare system. You will play a pivotal role in maintaining readiness and supporting the medical needs of uniformed service members, retirees, and their families.
Requirements for Physician (Pathology)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Hold a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited institution.
- Possess a current, active, full, and unrestricted physician license.
- Completion of a one-year internship or first year of residency in an accredited setting.
- Successful completion of residency training in Pathology.
- Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security and medical background clearances.
- Must pass a drug screening test.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician (Pathology)
- Completion of a 1-year fellowship in Transfusion Medicine.
- Experience in surgical pathology, cytology, and autopsy services.
- Demonstrated history of teaching physician residents.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Professional liability coverage provided under the Federal Tort Claims Act.
- ✓Paid time off and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunity for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Stability of federal civilian employment.
💡 How to Apply Physician (Pathology) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician (Pathology) Job
- Create or update your profile on the official federal jobs portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online questionnaire through the application link.
- Upload required documentation, including medical degrees, transcripts, and your professional license.
- Verify your application package for completeness and accuracy before submission.
- Submit your application by 11:59 PM (EST) on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; the system will automatically disqualify any resume exceeding the two-page limit.
- Ensure your resume includes start/end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for all previous roles.
- Use clear, plain language and avoid obscure acronyms.
- Monitor your email for notifications regarding your application status.
- Double-check that all uploaded transcripts and licenses are legible and current.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is medical malpractice insurance provided?
Yes. Federal civilian healthcare providers are covered by the Federal Tort Claims Act while acting within the scope of their employment, so individual insurance is not required.
Can I negotiate my salary?
Salary determination involves a compensation panel evaluating base and market pay. While the initial offer does not include a specific quote, negotiations may be possible for those new to federal service.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No. This position is located at Brooke Army Medical Center in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, and requires onsite presence.
Job from Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system dedicated to providing world-class medical services to nearly 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. As a strategic partner to the Department of Defense, the DHA ensures medical readiness across the globe. By joining our team, you become part of a network of dedicated professionals committed to improving health and saving lives anytime, anywhere.