Become a Medical Support Assistant at the VA Hudson Valley Healthcare System

Are you looking to build a career that truly matters? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring a Medical Support Assistant (MSA) to serve the men and women who have defended our nation. This role is a vital component of the VA Hudson Valley Healthcare System, providing the administrative backbone required to deliver exceptional clinical care. If you are organized, compassionate, and ready for a fast-paced work environment, this could be your next professional chapter.

Job Responsibilities

As a Medical Support Assistant, your day-to-day duties will be diverse and highly impactful. You will be the face of our clinics, managing the flow of information and patient interactions. Key responsibilities include:

Patient Coordination: Screening patients, visitors, and caregivers at medical centers.
Scheduling: Managing patient appointments using national scheduling guidelines and electronic health record systems.
Administrative Support: Preparing correspondence, managing insurance information, and updating patient demographics.
Communication: Acting as a liaison between patients and clinical staff, handling phone calls, and assisting with follow-up care coordination.
Data Management: Ensuring accurate data entry into VISTA and scanning critical documents into digital imaging systems within 24 hours.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Education/Experience: Must meet the requirements for the GS-03, GS-04, or GS-05 levels, which may involve a combination of education and administrative experience.
Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to speak and write in English fluently.
Compliance: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.

Grade Level Comparison Table

Grade Level	Education Requirement	Experience Requirement
GS-03	High School Diploma/GED	None
GS-04	1 Year post-high school education	1 Year equivalent experience
GS-05	2 Years post-high school education	1 Year equivalent experience

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $38,223 to $62,407 per year. The exact salary will be determined based on your qualifications and the needs of the VA at the time of selection.

Benefits

Working for the federal government comes with stability and a range of benefits. While intermittent roles may differ from full-time permanent positions, they offer a gateway into the federal workforce and the chance to earn service credit toward future leave and retirement benefits.

Application Tips

Use the Required Template: Ensure you download and use the provided clinical resume template.
Be Detailed: Clearly outline your administrative and customer service experience. Do not leave room for the recruiter to guess your skills.
Follow Deadlines: All documentation must be submitted through the USAJOBS portal before the closing date of September 8, 2026.

Serving our Veterans is a rewarding mission. By applying for the Medical Support Assistant role at the VA Hudson Valley, you are taking a step toward a career that balances professional growth with meaningful public service. Start your application today via the official USAJOBS platform.

Why This Medical Support Assistant Job Matters

Make a difference in the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the VA Hudson Valley Healthcare System as a Medical Support Assistant.

Medical Support Assistant Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Medical Support Assistant (MSA) to join our team in Montrose, New York. This intermittent, floating role is essential to our clinical operations, requiring the incumbent to provide administrative support across our medical facilities. You will be the first point of contact for Veterans, managing appointments, patient data, and communications to ensure our patients receive the high-quality care they deserve.

Requirements for Medical Support Assistant

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be proficient in both spoken and written English.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory for all Health Care Personnel.
Must be able to successfully complete a background and security investigation.
Ability to travel between Montrose VAMC and Castle Point VAMC as needed.

Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant

One year of customer service experience.
Demonstrated ability to use computer equipment and office automation software.
Experience in medical terminology and patient scheduling systems.
Ability to work independently in a fast-paced clinical or administrative environment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Regular salary increases
✓Opportunities for annual leave accrual based on prior service
✓Comprehensive federal benefits package

💡 How to Apply Medical Support Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Medical Support Assistant Job

Review the full vacancy announcement and gather required documentation, including your resume and transcripts.
Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload your standard clinical resume and any additional supporting documents.
Submit your application package by the closing date of September 8, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume; do not rely on assumptions about your experience.
Ensure you use the provided clinical resume template as part of your application package.
Double-check that all required documents, such as SF-50s or DD-214s, are attached.
Check your USAJOBS dashboard regularly for status updates after the application window closes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an intermittent position?

An intermittent position is one where there is no prearranged tour of duty; hours are scheduled as needed by the agency.

Will I have to travel for this job?

Yes, this is a 'float' position, meaning you will be required to travel between the Montrose VAMC and Castle Point VAMC locations.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an onsite position requiring physical attendance at our Hudson Valley facilities.

What is the career potential?

The full performance level for this vacancy is GS-05, providing a clear path for growth.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The VA Hudson Valley Healthcare System is part of the Veterans Integrated Service Network 2 (VISN 2), serving Veterans across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Our mission is to fulfill the promise made by President Lincoln to care for those who have borne the battle. We operate multiple facilities, including medical centers in Montrose and Wappingers Falls, along with several community-based outpatient clinics. We prioritize Whole Health, ensuring that our Veterans receive not just treatment, but comprehensive care that respects their service and sacrifice.