Advance Your Career as a Primary Care Physician with the VA Palo Alto
The VA Palo Alto Health Care System is currently seeking a committed and skilled Primary Care Physician to join our multidisciplinary team. This role represents a unique opportunity to serve those who have served our country while working within one of the nation's most prestigious academic-affiliated healthcare networks. If you are passionate about patient outcomes, mentorship, and integrated medicine, this is your chance to make a lasting impact.
Job Responsibilities
As a Primary Care Physician, your day-to-day work will be dynamic and rewarding. Primary responsibilities include:
- Clinical Care: Delivering high-quality evaluations, diagnosis, and treatment for adult patients in an ambulatory setting.
- Integrated Services: Performing minor procedures such as wound debridement, laceration repair, and basic women's health exams.
- Telemedicine: Utilizing modern technology to expand the reach of our healthcare services.
- Mentorship: Engaging in potential opportunities to precept Stanford medical residents, providing teaching and clinical guidance.
- Specialized Care: Opportunities to contribute to the Obesity Medicine Clinic based on service needs and candidate qualifications.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Foundation: A Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution.
- Licensure: A full, unrestricted license to practice in any U.S. state or territory.
- Residency: Successful completion of an ACGME or AOA-accredited residency program.
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is generally required for federal employment.
- Communication: Exceptional verbal and written proficiency in English.
Salary and Benefits Overview
We offer a competitive compensation package designed to reward your expertise and dedication.
| Benefit Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $294,308 - $315,000 per year |
| Loan Repayment | Up to $200,000 via EDRP |
| Paid Time Off | 50-55 days total (Leave + Holidays + CME) |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 401(k) with match |
| Malpractice | Provided with full tail coverage |
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success, ensure your application is submitted via the official portal. Since this is an open continuous announcement, the VA conducts rolling reviews. Submitting your materials early—prior to the designated cut-off dates—is highly recommended. Be thorough in documenting your clinical experience, including any academic or research background that may align with our mission.
Serving our Veterans requires a high standard of care and a compassionate heart. At the VA Palo Alto, you will be supported by a team dedicated to your professional success and the well-being of those who have defended our country. Take the next step in your medical career and apply today.
Why This Physician - Primary Care Job Matters
Advance your medical career with the VA Palo Alto Health Care System—a premier teaching hospital dedicated to providing world-class care for those who served our nation.
Physician - Primary Care Job Overview
The VA Palo Alto Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Primary Care Physician to provide compassionate, high-quality healthcare to Veterans. This position offers a unique blend of patient care, research, and academic collaboration in partnership with the Stanford University School of Medicine. As a Primary Care Physician, you will perform comprehensive evaluations, manage acute and chronic medical conditions, and have the opportunity to mentor medical residents in a state-of-the-art facility.
Requirements for Physician - Primary Care
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions only for cases where citizens are not available).
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited school.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license from any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA-accredited residency training program.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and background security investigation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Primary Care
- Board certification or eligibility in Internal Medicine.
- Experience in academic medicine or medical preceptorship.
- Background in obesity medicine or metabolic condition management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with annual performance bonuses.
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Federal pension and 401(k) retirement plan with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Generous PTO: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Malpractice protection with tail coverage.
- ✓CME reimbursement opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Physician - Primary Care Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Primary Care Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare your current resume and/or CV.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview invitations.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your CV clearly highlights your residency completion and current licensure status.
- If you are a Veteran, ensure your DD214 is uploaded to claim preference.
- Address the initial cut-off dates: applications are reviewed bi-weekly starting September 8, 2026.
- Double-check that all contact information is accurate for follow-up communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers reimbursement of up to $200,000 for qualified educational loans.
Can I work other jobs while employed here?
Yes, there are no significant restrictions on moonlighting, provided it does not conflict with your primary duties at the VA.
What is the expected workload for this position?
This is a full-time position involving clinical care, potential clinical precepting for Stanford residents, and administrative documentation.
What is the EDRP?
The Education Debt Reduction Program is a VA initiative that helps reimburse qualifying student loan debt up to a set maximum.
Do I need to be board certified?
While not explicitly mandated as a base requirement, board certification or eligibility in Internal Medicine is highly preferred.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS) is a critical component of the VA Sierra Pacific Network (VISN 21). As a major teaching facility, we are affiliated with the Stanford University School of Medicine, fostering a culture of research, innovation, and clinical excellence. We manage over 800 beds and provide comprehensive care to over 67,000 Veterans, ranging from primary care to tertiary and long-term medical services.