Lead Veteran Care: Physician Section Chief Opportunity in Tucson, AZ
The Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System (SAVAHCS) is seeking a visionary and experienced Physician to step into the role of Section Chief and Clinical Director for Primary Care (PACT). This is a premier opportunity for a medical leader to drive clinical excellence while directly impacting the lives of over 170,000 Veterans in the Southern Arizona region. If you are passionate about whole-health care and strategic medical operations, this role offers the perfect balance of leadership and direct patient care.
Job Responsibilities
As the Medical Director, you will be the backbone of our Primary Care operations. Your core responsibilities include:
- Operations Oversight: Managing provider personnel, clinic workflows, and administrative compliance.
- Strategic Leadership: Implementing Primary Care goals and collaborating with the clinic’s TRIAD leadership (Office Manager and Clinical Nurse Manager).
- Clinical Quality: Ensuring risk management protocols and quality of care standards are strictly upheld.
- Patient Care: Providing high-quality medical services to Veterans, including diagnostic testing and medication management.
- Policy Development: Drafting and implementing clinic policies in line with VHA and federal regulations.
Comparison: Traditional Practice vs. VA Leadership
| Feature | Traditional Private Practice | VA Physician Leadership |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Focus | Billing/Efficiency Driven | Whole Health/Veteran-Centric |
| Malpractice | High Cost / Personal Policy | Full Federal Tail Coverage |
| Loan Repayment | Rare | EDRP (Up to $200k) |
| Work-Life | Often Uncertain | Stable 4/10 Schedule |
Requirements
To qualify for this high-impact role, candidates must possess:
- An M.D. or D.O. degree from an accredited institution.
- A current, unrestricted license to practice in any U.S. state.
- Completion of an approved residency program.
- Excellent English proficiency for communication with staff and patients.
- Ability to clear necessary security and physical fitness screenings.
Salary Overview
The compensation package is highly competitive, ranging from $275,000 to $290,000 annually. This is augmented by performance-based bonuses, regular salary increases, and extensive federal benefits, making it an excellent long-term career path.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, you will enjoy:
- 50-55 days of total annual leave (including holidays and sick time).
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- A robust federal pension system.
- Participation in the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Application Tips
- Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your experience in clinic management or team supervision.
- Detail Your Training: Clearly document your residency and any relevant fellowships.
- Follow Instructions: Missing documents can delay your referral status—follow the USAJobs checklist precisely.
Join us in Tucson and lead the next generation of primary care for our nation’s heroes. With a focus on patient outcomes, professional development, and a supportive team environment, your leadership will leave a lasting legacy.
Why This Physician-Primary Care-Section Chief/Clinical Director (Pact) Job Matters
Lead the future of Veteran-centered primary care at the Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System.
Physician-Primary Care-Section Chief/Clinical Director (Pact) Job Overview
The Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Physician to serve as a Section Chief and Clinical Director for our Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) in Tucson, AZ. This leadership role involves guiding medical operations, supervising clinical staff, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, compassionate care to those who have served our nation.
Requirements for Physician-Primary Care-Section Chief/Clinical Director (Pact)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply for recruitment needs)
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license in any U.S. state or territory
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA-accredited residency program
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening
- Background and security investigation clearance
Preferred Qualifications for Physician-Primary Care-Section Chief/Clinical Director (Pact)
- Board Certification or Board Eligibility in Internal Medicine or Family Practice
- Previous experience in clinical leadership or administrative management
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement clinic-wide policies
- Proven track record of success in quality improvement initiatives
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive salary and annual performance bonuses
- âś“Up to 55 days of paid time off (Annual, Sick, and Federal Holidays)
- âś“Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- âś“Federal pension plan and 401k with matching contributions
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- âś“Professional malpractice liability protection
- âś“Continuing Medical Education (CME) reimbursement opportunities
đź’ˇ How to Apply Physician-Primary Care-Section Chief/Clinical Director (Pact) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician-Primary Care-Section Chief/Clinical Director (Pact) Job
- Visit the official USAJobs portal to create or update your profile.
- Prepare your current C.V. and resume highlighting clinical and leadership experience.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the specified cut-off dates.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests regarding documentation.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly documents your residency training and board certification status.
- Apply by the initial cut-off date of October 30, 2026, for the best consideration.
- Double-check that your medical license is active and unrestricted.
- Use the provided online status tracker in your USAJobs account to monitor your progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which may provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement depending on program approval.
What is the work schedule?
The role utilizes a compressed work schedule consisting of four 10-hour shifts per week, Monday through Friday, between 6:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served. At the Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System, we operate a state-of-the-art flagship medical center alongside seven Community Based Outpatient Clinics. Our model utilizes the 'Whole Health' approach, empowering Veterans to take charge of their well-being in partnership with their care teams.