Lead Compassionate Care: Palliative Medicine Section Chief in Buffalo

Are you a dedicated physician seeking a leadership role that balances direct patient care with administrative influence? The Western New York Healthcare System, part of the Department of Veterans Affairs, is currently seeking a Section Chief for Hospice and Palliative Care. This position is a rare opportunity to shape end-of-life care standards for our nation's heroes while working in a supportive, academic-affiliated environment.

Job Responsibilities

The Section Chief holds a multifaceted role involving both clinical oversight and strategic development. Key duties include:

Programmatic Leadership: Managing staffing, service criteria, and quality improvement initiatives for the hospice and palliative care service.
Clinical Care: Serving as an attending physician for inpatient consults and leading outpatient clinic services.
Mentorship: Acting as the site director for the Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship at the Jacobs School of Medicine and supervising internal medicine residents.
Strategic Planning: Collaborating with Geriatrics and Extended Care leadership to optimize patient outcomes.

Comparison: Benefits of Working at the VA

Benefit Feature	VA Employment	Private Sector (Typical)
Retirement	Federal Pension + 401K	Varies greatly
Liability	Free Malpractice/Tail	Often out-of-pocket
Leave	50-55 Days/Year	Varies (often lower)
Debt Relief	EDRP Available	Usually limited

Requirements

To be eligible, you must meet the standard requirements for VA medical staff:

Education: A Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy degree.
Licensure: A full, unrestricted license to practice in a U.S. State or territory.
Residency: Completion of an accredited training program.
Proficiency: Excellent English communication skills.
Compliance: Ability to pass security checks and health screenings.

Salary and Perks

The position offers a competitive salary range of $230,000 to $260,000 per year, complemented by a robust federal total rewards package. This includes significant paid time off, comprehensive health insurance plans that carry into retirement, and eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.

Application Tips

Tailor Your CV: Ensure your experience in palliative medicine and clinical leadership is front and center.
Review Credentials: Have your licensing documents ready to ensure a smooth onboarding process.
Use the VA System: Utilize the official USAJOBS platform and ensure your profile is complete before clicking apply.

This role is more than a career move; it is a chance to define the standard of care for Veterans in Western New York. If you are an experienced physician looking for a role that offers both personal satisfaction and unparalleled career stability, we encourage you to submit your application today.

Why This Physician-Palliative Care Job Matters

Lead the future of compassionate care: Become a Section Chief for Hospice and Palliative Care with the VA in Buffalo.

Physician-Palliative Care Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Physician to serve as the Section Chief of Hospice and Palliative Care at the Western New York Healthcare System. This leadership role involves shaping the future of palliative care services, managing clinical teams, and mentoring the next generation of medical professionals. If you are passionate about providing high-quality, interdisciplinary support to Veterans at the end of life, this position offers an opportunity to make a profound impact within a supportive and mission-driven healthcare environment.

Requirements for Physician-Palliative Care

Must be a U.S. citizen (exceptions apply only when qualified citizens are unavailable).
Hold a Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy degree from an accredited institution.
Possess a full and unrestricted medical license from any U.S. State or territory.
Completion of an ACGME or AOA-accredited residency training program.
Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and background investigation.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Physician-Palliative Care

Board certification in Hospice and Palliative Medicine.
Experience in clinical leadership and program development.
Proven track record in mentoring medical students, residents, and fellows.
Expertise in coordinating interdisciplinary care teams in a hospital setting.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive salary with annual performance bonus potential.
✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
✓50-55 days of total paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays).
✓Federal pension plan and 401K with up to 5% employer matching.
✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
✓Liability protection with tail coverage.
✓CME reimbursement opportunities.
✓Supportive work-life balance with a standard Monday-Friday schedule.

💡 How to Apply Physician-Palliative Care Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physician-Palliative Care Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare your resume/CV and any supporting documentation, such as medical licenses and credentials.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your application package, ensuring all required documents are attached.
Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your CV clearly highlights your leadership experience and palliative care background.
Double-check that your medical license information is current and valid.
Apply early; while the deadline is set for 2027, the announcement may close early if the position is filled.
Reach out to the listed agency contact if you require any special accommodations during the application process.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP. You must apply for the program within four months of your appointment date.

Is board certification required?

While not universally required for all VA physicians, it is required for positions involving the supervision of medical students or trainees, faculty status, or specific VHA clinical service leadership.

Can I work additional jobs while employed here?

There are no significant restrictions on moonlighting, provided it does not interfere with your primary responsibilities.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise: to care for those who have served in our nation's military and their families. Working at the VA means more than just a job; it means joining a community that values clinical excellence, whole-health care, and compassion above all else.