Leading Excellence in Geriatric Care: Service Chief Opportunity at the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a distinguished Physician to join the New York Harbor Healthcare System as the Service Chief for Geriatrics and Extended Care (GEC) at the St. Albans Campus. This leadership position offers a unique opportunity to shape the standard of care for our nation’s aging heroes while managing a dynamic clinical, administrative, and educational environment.
Job Responsibilities
As the Service Chief of GEC, you will be the primary physician responsible for the clinical administration and quality of care delivered within our nursing home units and outpatient clinics. Your core responsibilities include:
- Administrative Leadership: Aligning GEC services with the facility's strategic mission and overseeing all operations of the Community Living Center (CLC).
- Clinical Excellence: Providing primary care to a panel of patients and ensuring high-quality, long-term health care for geriatric Veterans.
- Educational Oversight: Directing clinical training programs for residents and health profession students, ensuring an environment of continuous learning.
- Performance Improvement: Developing and evaluating strategies to enhance care delivery and customer service standards.
Requirements
To qualify for this vital role, candidates must meet the following baseline federal standards:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (exceptions apply per VA policy).
- Must hold a valid MD or DO degree from an accredited medical school.
- Must maintain a full, unrestricted license to practice medicine.
- Must have completed an approved residency program in a core specialty.
Salary Overview & Comparison
The VA provides a comprehensive total rewards package. The following table illustrates the typical components of the compensation structure for this position.
| Benefit Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Base Salary | $225,000 - $330,000 Per Year |
| Performance Bonus | Annual performance-based incentives |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 401(k) with matching |
| Insurance | Comprehensive health, dental, and life options |
Benefits
Beyond salary, the VA offers significant benefits, including the ability to carry federal health insurance into retirement, generous leave accrual, and professional development support. Because this role is part of the federal government, you also benefit from robust job security and a mission-focused work environment.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Explicitly state your experience with Geriatrics or Long-Term Care.
- Documentation: Have your medical license, board certification, and residency completion records ready before starting the application.
- Follow Procedures: The federal hiring process is precise. Ensure you answer every part of the occupational questionnaire accurately to avoid being disqualified.
Serving as the Service Chief of Geriatrics and Extended Care at the St. Albans Campus is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the welfare of those who have given so much. If you are a board-certified physician with a passion for geriatric care, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Physician - Service Chief/Geriatrics And Extended Care Job Matters
Lead a mission-driven team at the St. Albans Campus and provide essential geriatric and extended care to those who have served our nation.
Physician - Service Chief/Geriatrics And Extended Care Job Overview
The VA New York Harbor Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Physician to serve as the Service Chief for Geriatrics and Extended Care (GEC) at our St. Albans Campus. This high-impact leadership role involves directing clinical, administrative, and educational activities to ensure the delivery of high-quality, comprehensive, and compassionate care for our aging Veteran population. You will oversee interdisciplinary teams, manage performance improvement initiatives, and help shape the future of long-term care within the VA system.
Requirements for Physician - Service Chief/Geriatrics And Extended Care
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply only under specific VA policy)
- Degree of Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine from an accredited institution
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice medicine or surgery in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA accredited residency program
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Service Chief/Geriatrics And Extended Care
- Board Certification or eligibility in Internal Medicine
- Professional experience, training, or advanced proficiency in Geriatrics, Long-Term Care, or Palliative Care
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with annual performance bonuses
- ✓Traditional federal pension (vested after 5 years)
- ✓Federal 401(k) with government matching up to 5%
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Generous paid time off and sick leave
- ✓Potential for a sign-on recruitment incentive for highly qualified candidates
- ✓Career portability within the federal system
💡 How to Apply Physician - Service Chief/Geriatrics And Extended Care Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Service Chief/Geriatrics And Extended Care Job
- Create or log in to your existing USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your current C.V. or professional resume.
- Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire online.
- Upload required documentation, such as medical licenses and proof of residency.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your leadership experience and geriatric expertise.
- Double-check that your license information is accurate and up-to-date.
- Apply early to avoid potential system delays near the closing date.
- Clearly state your Veterans' Preference status if applicable, and attach your DD214.
- Keep a copy of the job announcement number (CBTE-13102313-27-RG) for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for relocation expenses?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Does this role involve research opportunities?
Yes, the VA encourages research activities that add to the understanding of the diagnosis and treatment of geriatric conditions.
What is the expected work schedule?
The role operates on a standard schedule of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care 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 for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By joining our team, you become part of an organization dedicated to compassionate, whole-health care.