Physician (Hospitalist Part-Time) with EDRP

Summary

The Amarillo VA Health Care System in Amarillo, Texas is seeking a part‑time Physician (Hospitalist) to manage admissions, discharges, daily follow‑up, and consultative care for hospital patients. This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).

Qualifications

• United States citizenship (non‑citizens may be appointed only when qualified citizens cannot be recruited in accordance with VA policy).
• Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from a school approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the year of completion.
• Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice medicine or surgery in any U.S. state, territory, Commonwealth, or the District of Columbia.
• Residency training approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs in an accredited core specialty program leading to eligibility for board certification (ACGME or AOA accredited). Acceptable pathways include:
  • Accredited residency or fellowship program.
  • One year of post‑medical‑school training (internship or transitional year) followed by two years of independent practice under a full license.
  • Non‑U.S. residency training plus a minimum of three years of verified independent practice in the United States.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Preferred experience:
  • Board certified in Internal Medicine.
  • At least 2 years of hospitalist experience.
  • Internal Medicine resident teaching experience.

Physical Requirements

Light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds), use of fingers, walking, standing (both legs required), specific visual requirement (ability to see a computer screen), and hearing (aids permitted).

Duties

• Evaluate patients by thorough examination.
• Obtain and interpret appropriate clinical, laboratory, and other pertinent data to determine diagnosis and clinical status.
• Prescribe timely treatment and apply indicated therapeutic procedures.
• Recognize and assess changes in patient behavior, symptoms, signs, and modify the treatment plan as needed.
• Identify personal capabilities and limitations; act promptly in emergency situations.
• Maintain BLS/ACLS certification as required by bylaws.
• Develop rapport with patients and families, ensuring they are informed participants in care.
• Seek consultation and utilize specialty services when indicated.
• Document physical examinations, status changes, and incidents promptly and accurately.
• Maintain clear, accurate, and complete clinical records, including discharge summaries.
• Utilize the Computerized Patient Record System for all progress notes and orders, signing them daily.

Educational Responsibilities

• Teach and/or coordinate learning experiences for residents, trainees, or employees.
• Serve as a mentor, planning and guiding educational activities to meet individual learner needs.
• Counsel learners on professional and occupational goals related to education.
• Encourage active student participation and solicit feedback on teaching effectiveness.
• Ensure educational content aligns with patient care needs and is appropriate for the audience.
• Develop lectures, courses, or programs based on established objectives.
• Employ learning resources such as libraries, films, and slides appropriately.
• Assess educational needs using audits, surveys, morbidity and mortality data, and emerging healthcare developments.
• Establish procedures for self‑assessment and needs‑assessment for professionals.
• Select cost‑effective educational interventions and set objectives consistent with available resources.

Work Schedule

Part‑time position with weekend hours.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary with annual performance bonus and regular salary increases.
• Paid Time Off: 50–55 days per year (26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 federal holidays, and up to 5 days paid CME absence).
• Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5‑year vesting) and federal 401(k) with up to 5 % VA contributions.
• Insurance: Federal health, vision, dental, term life, and long‑term care coverage (many programs portable into retirement).
• CME reimbursement: Up to $1,000 per year (requires full‑time status with board certification).
• Malpractice: Free liability protection with tail coverage provided.
• No physician employment contract and no significant restriction on moonlighting.
• Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility for student loan repayment (former EDRP participants ineligible).