Physician (Geriatrics & Extended Care) Veterans Affairs Corpus Christi

Job Description

Job Description

Job Overview

The Staff Physician for Geriatric and Extended Care (GEC) plays a vital role in delivering exceptional, patient-focused care to Veterans within the Geri-PACT clinic. This position works closely with the Medical Director and Program Manager to ensure high standards of service.

Eligible candidates may receive a Recruitment/Relocation Incentive and may qualify for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).

Key Responsibilities

The Physician is accountable for the quality of care delivered by the program, its productivity, and the creation and execution of initiatives that align with the mission of the Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System (VCBHCS). Key responsibilities include:

• Gathering patient histories and conducting physical examinations.
• Formulating working diagnoses and developing treatment plans based on clinical guidelines and patient preferences.
• Determining the appropriate disposition for patients, including referrals to emergency departments, hospitals, assisted living facilities, community nursing homes, home health services, and hospice care.
• Ordering laboratory tests, x-rays, EKGs, and other diagnostic procedures.
• Initiating and expediting requests for medical or surgical specialty consultations.
• Providing education and counseling to patients and their families regarding preventive care, medical conditions, and medication management.

The Staff Physician may collaborate with various providers and specialists, both within and outside the VA system, to manage or co-manage patient health. Select mental health, medical, and surgical specialty services are available on-site, while additional services can be accessed through community contracts.

Additional Responsibilities

In addition to adhering to federal, national, and local regulations, policies, and accreditation standards, the following responsibilities are also included:

• Engaging in chart reviews, staff meetings, committees, and process improvement initiatives.
• Implementing advancements in medical care and practice standards.
• Communicating effectively with both staff and leadership regarding patient outcomes and relevant issues.
• Following clinic procedures for patient scheduling and access.
• Responding promptly to critical lab and diagnostic test results.
• Ensuring all patient encounters are documented on the same day as the visit in CPRS.
• Maintaining credentials necessary for privileging and re-privileging, and achieving competencies as approved by the professional board.
• Overseeing the delegated care activities of Nurse Practitioners and Pharm D team members.
• Providing cross-coverage for physicians within the approved privileges set by the Professional Standards Board.
• Communicating coverage plans to team members during any leave of absence.
• Completing all required training and health compliance requirements.

Clinical Duties

• Providing clinical guidance and oversight for patient treatment plans.
• Being readily available for collaboration with team members when medical issues arise.
• Ensuring timely care delivery in appropriate settings, adhering to accepted practices and evidence-based guidelines.
• Overseeing the delegated care activities of Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Pharm D's within their scope of practice.
• Documenting patient visits and encounters in CPRS promptly.
• Facilitating consultations and implementing recommendations from specialists.
• Addressing infection control issues, including skin testing, immunizations, and prevention measures.
• Providing cross-coverage across various GEC services within the approved privileges.
• Remaining privileged and actively practicing in their specialty field.

Compensation and Benefits

Our organization offers a comprehensive total rewards package, including:

• Salary: Competitive pay, annual performance bonuses, and regular salary increases.
• Paid Time Off: 50-55 days of annual leave, including 26 days of vacation, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid federal holidays, and up to 5 days for continuing medical education (CME).
• Retirement: A traditional federal pension with a 5-year vesting period and a federal 401K plan with contributions up to 5% from the organization.
• Insurance: Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, term life, and long-term care insurance options, many of which can be carried into retirement.
• Licensure: One full and unrestricted medical license from any U.S. state or territory.
• CME: Potential reimbursement of up to $1,000 per year.
• Malpractice: Free liability protection with tail coverage included.
• Contract: No employment contract required, with no significant restrictions on outside work.