When beginning the pursuit of a career as a physician, it is clear that
opportunities are available in a variety of work settings. It is important to consider your
personal goals and desires, and to find employment in an atmosphere that is most
comfortable for you. Finding the right fit can ensure you a lifetime of career
happiness and success.

Many physicians, who are seeking employment, begin their search with the
government. With a growing number of openings in a variety of fields and
benefits that are highly competitive, government jobs are very attractive to applicants.
Government physician jobs are available in veteran’s affairs, military medical
command and health and human services, and open positions can be found all over
the country and the world.

The United States Government currently employs over 14,000 physicians and adds
available opportunities often. Working as a physician for the government can put
you in an environment with other like-minded academics and devoted medical
professionals. With access to the latest technologies, and cutting edge
research, government physician jobs can be some of the most exciting in the world.

Government jobs are highly attractive because of the comprehensive benefit
package that goes along with the competitive salary offerings. Physicians
working for the government will often receive paid time off, sick leave, health
benefits, life insurance and inclusion in the Federal Employees Retirement System.
Additionally, the government will often provide a bonus structure, on-site childcare and
tuition reimbursement for continued education. Salaries with the government are
competitive with salaries provided by most private institutions.

Government physician jobs are focused more on medical practice, and less on
paperwork and business tasks. Without the hassle of billing and with reduced
paperwork, the physician working for the government has more time to focus on
patient care. Government physician job agencies that are employing physicians
typically schedule predictably and conservatively, which is a relief to those
who are concerned with hours spent on-call or held over.

If working for the government seems like a suitable fit for you, when seeking a
government physician job it’s important to begin your search with a reputable
resource. A simple search for government jobs will spawn a host of unnecessary
information, and businesses looking for money in exchange for job search
results. Begin your search at the top, with the government or specific government agency
in which you are interested. The Federal Government has an official website with
employment opportunity listings, as does the Department of Veterans Affairs. It
should never cost you money to locate government job listings.

Once you have located opportunities that interest you, it is important to craft
your resume carefully and consider the requirements of the positions. Many government
jobs require that a physician hold an unrestricted license, which allows them to
practice in any state, and be board certified in their specialty. You will have
to be a citizen, or obtain the proper working credentials, to be considered for
employment. In addition to a resume and qualifications, almost all government jobs require a
background security investigation, drug screening and pre-employment medical
screening.