Advance Your Medical Career: Physician Opportunities in PM&R at the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System
Are you a dedicated physician looking to balance high-level clinical work with a fulfilling, mission-driven career? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a motivated Physician for the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) service in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This is a unique opportunity to provide exceptional care to our nation's Veterans while enjoying the benefits of a federal career.
Job Responsibilities
As a staff physiatrist, you will be the cornerstone of our rehabilitation services. Duties include:
- Clinical Assessment: Evaluating patients and prescribing comprehensive treatment plans.
- Procedural Care: Performing electrodiagnostic testing, soft tissue injections, and botulinum toxin therapy.
- Educational Leadership: Mentoring residents, medical students, and allied health professionals.
- Program Development: Collaborating with the Chief of PM&R to optimize resource utilization and service growth.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet strict federal qualifications:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship required (exceptions made for non-citizens only if recruitment of citizens is not possible).
- Education: Degree from an accredited medical school (allopathic or osteopathic).
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted medical license.
- Training: Completion of an accredited residency program.
- Physical Standards: Ability to perform essential functions, including lifting up to 44 lbs and standing for extended periods.
Comparison Table: VA vs. Private Practice
| Feature | VA Healthcare | Typical Private Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Liability | Fully Covered (Tail included) | Often requires individual purchase |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 401K Match | Highly variable |
| Leave | 50-55 Days annually | Usually 20-30 days |
| Contract | No restrictive contracts | Often restrictive (non-competes) |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive annual salary range of $255,000 to $315,000, determined by your specific experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, the VA provides an unmatched rewards package including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Federal pension plans.
- Paid time off for professional development and CME.
- No state income tax in Tennessee.
Application Tips
- Use the Required Forms: Ensure you download the specific clinical resume template provided by the VA website.
- Highlight Skills: Emphasize your procedural skills like EMG and joint injections.
- Stay Accurate: Ensure all contact information and credentialing documents are up to date.
Serving the Veterans of Tennessee and Kentucky is a rewarding challenge. If you are a skilled Physiatrist ready to contribute to a world-class rehabilitation team, we encourage you to apply to the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System today.
Why This Physician Job Matters
Join the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System as a Physician and play a pivotal role in providing compassionate, world-class rehabilitative care to those who have served our nation.
Physician Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Physician to join the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) service within the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System. This role involves comprehensive clinical care, program development, and leadership in rehabilitation medicine. You will work across various specialized clinics while contributing to academic growth and patient advocacy in the Chattanooga area.
Requirements for Physician
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply for non-citizens per VA policy).
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice medicine or surgery in any U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Completion of an ACGME/AOA accredited residency program.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Completion of mandatory background and security investigations.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician
- Board certification in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
- Experience in specialized clinics such as Amputee, Spinal Cord Injury, or Traumatic Brain Injury.
- Proven track record in medical education and oversight of residents.
- Experience in clinical program development and quality improvement.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with annual performance bonuses.
- ✓50-55 days of paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Federal retirement pension and 401K-style savings plan with matching contributions.
- ✓Malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
- ✓Potential for CME reimbursement.
💡 How to Apply Physician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required Clinical Resume Document from the provided link.
- Upload your standard CV and the completed Clinical Resume form.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your CV clearly highlights your clinical experience and any board certifications.
- The VA uses a formal pay-setting process; ensure your experience is well-documented.
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, include your DD214 and any required SF-15 documentation.
- Monitor your email for status notifications after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work-life balance like in this role?
The position features a standard Monday-Friday work week and offers a generous leave package, including 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave annually.
Is residency training required?
Yes, completion of an ACGME or AOA accredited residency program is a mandatory basic requirement for this position.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS) is a premier healthcare network encompassing hospitals in Murfreesboro and Nashville, alongside 21 outpatient clinics. We serve over 146,000 Veterans across the region with a commitment to compassionate, whole-health care. Working with the VA means joining an institution that values innovation, research, and long-term support for those who have defended our country.