Advance Your Medical Career: Join the VA Central Iowa Healthcare System as a Hospitalist
The VA Central Iowa Healthcare System is currently seeking compassionate and skilled Physician-Hospitalists to join our inpatient medical team. This position offers a unique chance to work within a mission-driven organization, providing essential care to our nation’s veterans. By joining the Department of Veterans Affairs, you aren't just taking a job; you are becoming part of a community that prioritizes whole-health care and clinical excellence.
Job Responsibilities
As a Hospitalist, your duties will be broad and impactful:
- Clinical Care: Lead admissions, discharges, and daily follow-up care for inpatient populations.
- Whole Health Integration: Implement the VHA’s Whole Health System, focusing on a personalized health plan for every Veteran.
- Clinical Leadership: Provide indirect supervision for residents and medical students and support Advanced Practice Providers.
- Administrative Oversight: Participate in discharge planning, interdisciplinary team meetings, and various clinical documentation initiatives.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Must hold a valid Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic degree.
- Must possess a full and unrestricted medical license from any U.S. State or Territory.
- Must have completed an accredited residency training program.
- Must be proficient in English and pass a federal background check.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Benefit Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $250,000 – $315,000 per year |
| Education Debt | Up to $200,000 via EDRP |
| Paid Time Off | 50-55 days per year (Annual/Sick/Holidays) |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 401(k) with 5% match |
| Malpractice | Free liability protection with tail coverage |
Application Tips
- Standardized Resumes: Use the provided Clinical Resume template to ensure your application passes initial screenings.
- Continuous Openings: Because this is an open continuous announcement, we encourage you to apply promptly; reviews occur every two weeks.
- Documentation: Keep your license and board certification details organized to expedite the credentialing process.
Serving as a Hospitalist at the VA Central Iowa Healthcare System is a rewarding path for physicians looking to make a lasting impact. With competitive pay, robust student loan repayment, and a balanced 7-on/7-off schedule, it is an ideal environment for clinical growth and patient-centered service. Apply today to start your journey with the VA.
Why This Physician - Hospitalist Job Matters
Advance your medical career with the VA Central Iowa Healthcare System—providing world-class, whole-person care to the Veterans who served our nation.
Physician - Hospitalist Job Overview
The VA Central Iowa Health Care System is seeking two dedicated full-time Physician-Hospitalists to join our team in Des Moines, Iowa. As a Hospitalist, you will play a pivotal role in the acute care of our Veterans, managing admissions, discharges, and daily consultative care. You will thrive in a collaborative environment that values Whole Health, empowering both patients and providers to achieve holistic well-being. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead interdisciplinary care teams, support advanced practice providers, and contribute to a supportive healthcare culture.
Requirements for Physician - Hospitalist
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply per VA policy).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license from any U.S. state or territory.
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA-approved residency program.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Successful passing of a pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Must pass a drug screening and background security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Hospitalist
- Board certification in Internal Medicine or Family Medicine.
- Proven experience in hospital-based acute care.
- Background in medical student and resident supervision.
- Strong skills in interdisciplinary team coordination and discharge planning.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health, Vision, and Dental insurance
- ✓Traditional Federal Pension plan
- ✓401(k) retirement options with up to 5% agency match
- ✓50-55 days of paid time off (Annual, Sick, and Federal Holidays)
- ✓Professional liability protection with tail coverage
- ✓Annual CME reimbursement up to $1,000
💡 How to Apply Physician - Hospitalist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Hospitalist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the mandatory Clinical Resume Document from the provided link.
- Upload your standard CV and the Clinical Resume document.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the announcement closes.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your documentation clearly reflects your board eligibility and licensure status.
- The announcement is open continuous; qualified candidates are reviewed every two weeks.
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to avoid processing delays.
- Double-check your eligibility for the EDRP program early in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
This position follows a 7 days on, 7 days off schedule, totaling 80 hours per pay period.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Does the VA require an employment contract for physicians?
No, the VA does not utilize physician employment contracts and does not restrict moonlighting, provided it does not conflict with your VA duties.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
*A: U.S. citizenship is preferred, but non-citizens may be appointed under specific conditions outlined by VA policy if qualified citizens are not available.*
Is there an employment contract?
*A: No, VA physician positions do not require an employment contract.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Central Iowa Health Care System is a multi-campus network providing comprehensive healthcare services to Veterans. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." With over 1,700 employees, we operate across a main campus in Des Moines and several Community Based Outreach Clinics (CBOCs) throughout the region.