Physician-Neurology: Advancing Care at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston is currently accepting applications for a full-time Physician-Neurologist. This is a unique opportunity for a dedicated medical professional to spearhead the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Regional Program while contributing to the high standard of care provided to our nation's Veterans. If you are passionate about clinical excellence, teaching, and serving those who have served, this position offers an exceptional career path.

Job Responsibilities

As a Staff Neurologist, you will be the primary lead for the Multiple Sclerosis clinic. Your daily duties will include:

Direct Clinical Care: Assessing and treating adult patients with MS and other complex neurological conditions.
Leadership: Overseeing the Houston MS Regional Program in coordination with national excellence centers.
Clinical Procedures: Ordering diagnostic tests such as MRI, CT, PET, EEG, and EMG; performing lumbar punctures.
Teaching: Mentoring residents, fellows, and medical students in a clinical setting.
Collaboration: Working within an interdisciplinary team alongside rehabilitation specialists, physical therapists, and social workers.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must demonstrate:

A valid Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree.
An unrestricted, full medical license from any U.S. State or territory.
Completion of an ACGME or AOA-accredited residency program.
Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
Ability to pass background investigations and drug screening.

Salary and Compensation Comparison

The VA offers a highly competitive pay structure designed to attract the nation's best talent.

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$270,000 - $315,000
Annual Leave	26 Days
Sick Leave	13 Days
Federal Holidays	11 Days
Retirement	Pension + 5% 401k Match

Benefits

Beyond the competitive salary, the VA provides a comprehensive total rewards package, including:

EDRP: Up to $200,000 in student loan debt reduction.
Insurance: Federal health, dental, vision, and long-term care plans.
Liability: Free malpractice coverage with tail protection.
Development: Annual support for Continuing Medical Education (CME).

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your experience in Neurology and MS subspecialties is front and center.
Check Your Documents: Have your medical school transcript and board certification documents prepared for verification.
Stay Responsive: Monitor your email frequently after submission, as status updates and interview requests are sent digitally.

The role of a Neurologist at the Houston VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the long-term health and well-being of our heroes. With generous benefits, a focus on academic growth, and a high-impact mission, this is a career-defining opportunity.

Why This Physician-Neurology Job Matters

Transform lives in the heart of Houston: Lead the MS Regional Program at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center.

Physician-Neurology Job Overview

The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Neurologist to join our team in Houston, Texas. This role is pivotal in providing high-level clinical care to our nation’s Veterans, specifically focusing on the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) clinic and broader neurological disorders. You will serve as a leader in clinical practice, patient education, and academic mentorship, working within a world-class environment that values interdisciplinary collaboration and medical excellence.

Requirements for Physician-Neurology

U.S. Citizenship (unless specific recruitment conditions are met).
Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution.
Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice medicine in any U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
Completed residency training in an accredited core specialty program.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Ability to pass a pre-employment physical evaluation and drug screening.
Must meet all mandatory immunization and health requirements, including seasonal influenza vaccination.

Preferred Qualifications for Physician-Neurology

Board Certification or Board Eligibility in Neurology.
Fellowship training in Multiple Sclerosis or Neuroimmunology.
Experience in leading interdisciplinary clinical teams.
Demonstrated history of academic teaching and mentorship.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive salary and annual performance bonuses.
✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000.
✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
✓Generous paid time off: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 federal holidays.
✓Federal pension plan and 401k-style TSP with 5% employer match.
✓Free malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
✓Potential for annual CME reimbursement.

💡 How to Apply Physician-Neurology Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physician-Neurology Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare your current C.V. or resume.
Submit your application package online via the provided link.
Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire.
Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly highlights your clinical experience and fellowship training.
Apply well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute technical delays.
Review your eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program prior to applying.
Have your supporting documents, such as medical licenses and board certifications, ready for the credentialing phase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this position?

Yes, this role is eligible for the EDRP, which provides up to $200,000 in student loan repayment. Interested candidates should consult with the program office after appointment.

What is the expected work schedule for this Neurologist role?

The position typically operates Monday–Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, with rotating on-call requirements for ward and consultation coverage.

Is there a restrictive employment contract?

No, the VA does not require a physician employment contract and offers flexibility regarding external work.

What is the call expectation?

You will be responsible for rotating ward and consult call duties, including some weekends.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling the promise to care for Veterans and their families. The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is one of the most prestigious facilities in the nation, providing comprehensive care to over 151,000 Veterans across southeast Texas. Located in Houston, a hub of culture and world-class medicine, our medical center offers a supportive, interdisciplinary environment for physicians to grow and succeed.