Physician Assistant - Pain Clinic: A Rewarding Career at the VA
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to make a profound impact on the lives of those who served? The VA Central Iowa Healthcare System is currently recruiting for a Physician Assistant (PA) to join our specialized Pain Management team. This is a unique opportunity to practice at the top of your license while contributing to the VA’s mission of providing compassionate, holistic care.
Job Responsibilities
As a Pain Clinic PA, your day-to-day work will be both challenging and fulfilling:
- Manage a panel of patients with acute and chronic pain conditions.
- Develop and execute evidence-based, individualized treatment plans.
- Perform physical exams, order diagnostic tests, and interpret results.
- Prescribe pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions, including compliance monitoring for pain medications.
- Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to provide holistic pain care.
Comparison: PA Grade Levels
| Grade Level | Key Focus | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| PA-I | Entry Level | Basic PA requirements; focused on patient history & planning. |
| PA-II | Intermediate | 2 years experience or post-grad residency; independent decision making. |
| PA-III | Full Performance | 3 years experience; leads care systems and mentors others. |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must hold a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, be certified by passing the PANCE, and maintain a full, unrestricted medical license. We prioritize candidates with experience in pain management, including proficiency in joint injections and Botox administration.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $110,684 to $192,325 per year, commensurate with experience and the formal pay-setting process used by the VA.
Benefits
Working for the VA offers a robust benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous retirement plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and a culture that values professional growth and work-life balance.
Application Tips
Ensure your application is complete by using the VA’s official Clinical Resume template. Be transparent about your clinical experience—especially any work related to pain management or rehabilitation—to ensure the hiring team can accurately assess your qualifications.
If you are an experienced PA with a heart for service, we encourage you to join our team in Des Moines. Apply by August 31, 2026, to be considered for this vital role.
Why This Physician Assistant - Pain Clinic Job Matters
Transform lives in the heart of Iowa: Join the VA Central Iowa Healthcare System as a Physician Assistant and lead pain management excellence for our nation's heroes.
Physician Assistant - Pain Clinic Job Overview
The VA Central Iowa Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Physician Assistant to join our Pain Management Service within the Rehabilitation and Extended Care division. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in the 'Whole Health' mission, managing a specialized patient panel, delivering evidence-based pain interventions, and collaborating with an interdisciplinary team to ensure our Veterans receive the compassionate, high-quality care they deserve.
Requirements for Physician Assistant - Pain Clinic
- Master’s degree in any discipline OR a bachelor’s degree plus one year of PA experience.
- Successfully passed the PA National Certifying Exam (PANCE).
- Hold a full and unrestricted license to practice in any US State, Territory, or DC.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may be considered if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician Assistant - Pain Clinic
- Prior clinical experience in Pain Management or Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR).
- Proficiency with opioid/buprenorphine prescribing and compliance monitoring.
- Demonstrated skill in Botox injections, joint injections, and trigger point therapy.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive Federal Salary
- âś“Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage
- âś“Retirement Savings Programs
- âś“Paid Leave and Federal Holidays
- âś“Professional Development Opportunities
- âś“Supportive Whole Health Work Environment
đź’ˇ How to Apply Physician Assistant - Pain Clinic Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician Assistant - Pain Clinic Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJobs.
- Prepare your resume using the VA's required Clinical Resume Document format.
- Gather supporting documents (transcripts, licenses, DD-214 if applicable).
- Create or log into your USAJobs account.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your complete application package before the August 31, 2026, deadline.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided on the VA Careers website.
- Be specific and clear about your experience; the hiring team cannot make assumptions.
- Ensure all licenses and certifications are current and documented.
- Highlight your experience with specialized pain management procedures like Botox or trigger point injections.
- Double-check your application packet for all required documents before hitting submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Whole Health' approach mentioned in the job description?
It is the VA’s model of care that empowers Veterans to take charge of their well-being by creating personalized health plans that connect clinical care to their personal goals and community.
Can I apply if I haven't taken the PANCE exam yet?
Applicants in the process of taking the exam may be referred and tentatively selected, but you cannot be officially hired until all requirements, including certification, are met.
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: No, this position does not offer relocation benefits.*
Is this role eligible for telework?
*A: This position is not currently listed as eligible for telework.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for our Veterans and their families. At the VA Central Iowa Health Care System, we operate a multi-campus network that emphasizes 'Whole Health.' This model goes beyond treating symptoms; it focuses on empowering Veterans to achieve their personal health goals through interdisciplinary collaboration.