Lead Excellence in Geriatric Care: Section Chief Opportunity at the VA
Are you a dedicated physician with a passion for geriatric medicine and organizational leadership? The Department of Veterans Affairs invites you to join our clinical team at the Fredericksburg Veterans Affairs Health Care Center as the Section Chief of Geriatrics & Extended Care (GEC). This role is more than just a medical position; it is a chance to influence the standard of care for our nation’s heroes.
Job Responsibilities
The Section Chief of GEC serves as the primary administrative and clinical leader for the geriatric and extended care programs at the Fredericksburg facility. Key duties include:
- Clinical Leadership: Overseeing patient care in PACT clinics, HBPC, and Hospice & Palliative care.
- Program Management: Driving quality improvement and system redesign projects to enhance patient outcomes.
- Team Supervision: Mentoring and managing interdisciplinary staff, including nurse practitioners and physician assistants.
- Strategic Alignment: Collaborating with VA leadership to ensure clinical goals meet the needs of the Northern and Central Virginia Veteran populations.
Comparison: Standard Practice vs. VA Leadership Role
| Feature | Standard Private Practice | VA Section Chief Role |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Focus | Variable | Dedicated Veteran-centric care |
| Malpractice | Out-of-pocket costs | Fully covered with tail coverage |
| Loan Repayment | Rare | Up to $200,000 via EDRP |
| Schedule | Unpredictable | Standard Mon-Fri schedule |
Requirements
To be eligible for this high-impact position, you must:
- Hold a Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy degree.
- Possess a full and unrestricted medical license.
- Have completed an accredited residency program.
- Be proficient in English.
- Comply with VA vaccination and security requirements.
Salary Overview
The position offers a highly competitive salary range of $260,000 to $335,000 per year, depending on qualifications and experience. This is complemented by a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support both your professional and personal life.
Benefits
- Education Debt Reduction: Potential for significant student loan reimbursement.
- Generous Time Off: 50-55 days of leave per year.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401K options with government matching.
- Insurance: Extensive health, vision, and dental programs.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Explicitly outline your leadership accomplishments and experience with geriatric program management.
- Documentation: Have your medical license and board certification details ready for verification.
- Early Submission: Don't wait until the final deadline—ensure your application is complete to avoid processing delays.
If you are ready to take the next step in your career and make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of Veterans, we encourage you to apply. Lead with compassion, innovate with clinical precision, and join a team that values your commitment to excellence.
Why This Physician - Geriatrics & Extended Care Section Chief Job Matters
Lead the future of geriatric care at the Fredericksburg VA Health Care Center, where your clinical expertise meets impactful leadership in a mission-driven environment.
Physician - Geriatrics & Extended Care Section Chief Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a distinguished Physician to serve as the Section Chief of Geriatrics & Extended Care (GEC) at the Fredericksburg Veterans Affairs Health Care Center. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape geriatric programs, provide comprehensive clinical leadership, and deliver essential care to our nation's Veterans. You will oversee interdisciplinary teams, manage program development, and drive quality improvement initiatives within a state-of-the-art medical facility.
Requirements for Physician - Geriatrics & Extended Care Section Chief
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy from an accredited institution.
- Full and unrestricted license to practice medicine in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Completion of an ACGME/AOA accredited residency training program.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Geriatrics & Extended Care Section Chief
- Completed fellowship in Geriatrics or Hospice & Palliative Medicine (HPM).
- Proven experience in GEC program management and quality improvement.
- At least 2 years of professional experience in Geriatrics Primary Care or Home-Based Primary Care.
- Prior experience in a physician supervisory or leadership role.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive annual salary with performance bonuses.
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Comprehensive leave package (up to 55 days of combined annual, sick, and holiday time).
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401K with 5% matching.
- ✓Federal health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance options.
- ✓Free malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
- ✓Professional development support and CME reimbursement opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Physician - Geriatrics & Extended Care Section Chief Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Geriatrics & Extended Care Section Chief Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your current resume or C.V. detailing your clinical and leadership experience.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the online portal.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume highlights specific accomplishments in geriatric care and team supervision.
- Clearly state your board certifications and fellowship training.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents are uploaded correctly.
- Apply well before the deadline to account for any technical issues.
- Familiarize yourself with the VA's mission to better tailor your application materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 for qualified candidates.
What is the primary work location?
The position is based at the Fredericksburg Veterans Affairs Health Care Center in Virginia, with occasional travel to other sites within the Central Virginia VA Health Care System.
Is this a remote position?
No, this role requires face-to-face patient care, independent home visits, and on-site clinical leadership.
Do I need to be board certified?
*A: While board certification is highly preferred and may be required for faculty-affiliated roles, please refer to the Title 38 qualification standards provided in the official job announcement for specific details regarding your specialty.*
Is travel required?
*A: Yes, the role involves occasional travel to other CVHCS sites and potentially to patient homes for the Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) program.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We serve those who have served us, fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working with the VA means joining a mission-driven organization committed to innovation, whole-health, and clinical excellence.