Veterans Affairs Physician
A Veterans Affairs Physician provides medical care and treatment to veterans. They work in VA hospitals and clinics, catering to the unique healthcare needs of former military personnel.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Veterans Affairs Physician
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Veterans Affairs Physician, you will be responsible for providing medical care to veterans with the utmost respect for their service to our country. This role involves working within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system, often in VA hospitals and clinics, to address a wide range of health issues, including those specific to the veteran population such as PTSD and injuries sustained during military service.
Required Skills
- Dedication to patient-centered care and excellent bedside manner.
- Strong ability to work in a team and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
- Knowledge of and sensitivity towards the medical needs of veterans.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to handle a high caseload and prioritize tasks effectively.
- Comfortable with electronic health record systems and computer literacy.
- Commitment to continuous professional growth and development.
Qualifications
- Must possess a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.
- Valid state medical license to practice without restriction.
- Completion of a residency program, preferably in internal medicine, family practice, or a related field.
- Must be a U.S. citizen (non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens).
- Board eligibility or certification in a relevant medical specialty.
- Ability to pass a background check and drug screening as required by the federal government.
Responsibilities
- Provide comprehensive medical care to a diverse veteran patient population.
- Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to create and implement individualized care plans.
- Respect and adhere to the unique policies and procedures of the Veterans Affairs healthcare system.
- Stay informed on the latest medical treatments and developments related to military injuries and conditions.
- Communicate effectively with patients, their families, and the healthcare team to provide quality care.
- Participate in continuous learning opportunities to better serve the veteran community.
- Protect patient privacy and confidential information in accordance with federal laws.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Veterans Affairs Physician is responsible for providing comprehensive medical care to veterans, ensuring high-quality treatment and continuity of care within a Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare facility. This role involves working with a multidisciplinary team to assess, diagnose, and manage the healthcare needs of veterans, many of whom may be dealing with complex, service-related health issues.
Required Skills
- Strong clinical skills with the ability to manage multiple complex cases simultaneously.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact compassionately with a diverse veteran population.
- Proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make decisions in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Knowledge of federal, state, and VA guidelines related to veteran healthcare.
Qualifications
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.
- Valid unrestricted medical license to practice in the United States.
- Completion of a residency program in family medicine, internal medicine, psychiatry, or another relevant specialty.
- Board certification or eligibility in the relevant medical specialty.
- At least 2 years of clinical experience post-residency, with a preference for experience in a VA or military healthcare setting.
- A commitment to serving the veteran population and understanding of veterans' unique healthcare needs.
- U.S. citizenship.
Responsibilities
- Provide primary, specialty, and preventative medical care to veterans in accordance with VA standards.
- Evaluate patients by examining thoroughly and ordering appropriate tests, making diagnoses based on collected data.
- Formulate and execute treatment plans, and monitor the effectiveness of interventions.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals to provide holistic care.
- Maintain accurate patient records and document patient care services.
- Participate in continuous quality improvement initiatives within the facility.
- Stay informed on the latest medical treatments and advancements relevant to veteran healthcare.
- Coordinate with external healthcare providers as necessary to ensure continuity of care for veterans.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Veterans Affairs Physician, you will provide comprehensive medical care to United States veterans, often dealing with complex health issues related to their service. You will work in a multidisciplinary environment, collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best outcomes for your patients. You will demonstrate an understanding of the unique sacrifices made by veterans and apply this empathy to your clinical practice.
Required Skills
- Strong clinical skills with the ability to handle a large patient load effectively and compassionately.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, adept at working with patients from diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
- Knowledge of computerized information systems used in clinical management systems (e.g. electronic health records).
- Ability to make considered decisions and to communicate effectively with veterans and their families.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Dedication to continuing education and staying informed on the latest medical research and treatment methodologies.
Qualifications
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degree from an accredited institution.
- Board Certified/Board Eligible in a relevant medical specialty.
- Possess a valid and unrestricted medical license to practice medicine in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Minimum of 5 years' clinical experience post-residency/fellowship.
- U.S. Citizenship required (VA requirement).
- Prior experience in a government or VA facility preferred but not required.
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification desirable.
- Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.
Responsibilities
- Provide medical care and treatment to veterans, including diagnosing and managing acute and chronic conditions.
- Perform physical examinations and preventive health measures within prescribed guidelines and instructions of a supervising physician.
- Order, interpret, and evaluate diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's clinical problems and health care needs.
- Develop and implement patient management plans, record progress notes, and assist in the provision of continuity of care.
- Prescribe or administer medication, therapy, and other specialized medical care to treat or prevent illness, disease, or injury.
- Recommend veterans for hospitalization or admission to specialized outpatient services when necessary.
- Educate veterans and their families on wellness, prevention, and early detection by providing materials and resources to the patients and families.
- Ensure privacy, confidentiality, and proper documentation according to guidelines and laws.
- Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams including mental health professionals to ensure a holistic approach to health care.
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