Chief of Medicine
1 month ago
Chicago
Job Description VA Great Lakes Health Care System (VISN 12) Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center North Chicago, Illinois Lead Medicine in a Unique VA–DoD Integrated System The Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center stands as the first fully integrated health care facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense in the nation. This center provides comprehensive care for Veterans, active-duty personnel, retirees, and their families within a unified system. As the Chief of Medicine, you will influence clinical practices, operational strategies, and overall direction across various medical subspecialties in a collaborative environment. Key Leadership Responsibilities * Offer executive leadership for various Medicine services, including but not limited to cardiology, gastroenterology, hematology/oncology, pulmonary/critical care, neurology, nephrology, rheumatology, dermatology, endocrinology, hospitalist, and intensivist programs. * Maintain an active clinical practice (minimum of 20% of your time) while dedicating approximately 80% of your efforts to strategic, operational, and quality leadership. * Plan and manage resources for Medicine, including budget, staffing, space, equipment, and long-term capital requirements, in partnership with senior leadership and VISN 12. * Recruit, mentor, evaluate, and develop interdisciplinary staff; establish performance benchmarks; oversee promotions, disciplinary actions, and training initiatives. * Ensure adherence to VA, VISN 12, and Navy Medicine policies while promoting evidence-based practices, patient safety, and performance enhancement. * Act as a vital member and/or chair of governance bodies at FHCC and represent Medicine in both local and national committees. Preferred Background * A minimum of 5 years of clinical practice experience along with 5 years of progressive leadership or supervisory experience in a service line. * Proven track record in program development, quality improvement, and interprofessional collaboration within complex healthcare systems. * Experience with VA or military medicine is highly advantageous due to the integrated VA–Navy mission. Exceptional Federal Total Rewards Package Our organization provides a comprehensive total rewards package for physicians that combines competitive salaries with generous paid time off and robust retirement benefits. Compensation & Financial Incentives * Competitive physician salary with regular step increases and eligibility for annual performance bonuses. * Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP): Up to $200,000 in student loan repayment assistance over one to five years, contingent on specialty and program approval. * Relocation assistance: Potential sign-on bonuses and Permanent Change of Station (PCS) support for highly qualified candidates. Time Off & Professional Support * 50–55 days of paid leave annually: This includes 26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid federal holidays, plus up to 5 days of paid CME absence (if eligible). * CME reimbursement: Up to $1,000 annually for full-time, board-certified physicians. * Flexible practice structure: No formal employment contract for physicians, allowing minimal restrictions on moonlighting. Retirement, Insurance & Liability * Federal pension: 5-year vesting period along with a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) that includes up to 5% agency contributions. * Comprehensive federal insurance: Coverage options include health, vision, dental, life, and long-term care, many of which extend into retirement. * Malpractice coverage: Liability protection is provided at no cost, including tail coverage through the federal government. Schedule * Standard Monday–Friday schedule: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., promoting a balanced professional and personal life. Why Join Us? Our facility offers a chance to engage in mission-driven medicine within a collaborative, integrated environment that serves a uniquely diverse patient population. * Integrated mission: Provide care for Veterans alongside active-duty service members, recruits at Naval Station Great Lakes, retirees, and their families in the only fully integrated VA-DoD facility in the nation. * Comprehensive on-site services: Access a full range of medical and surgical specialties, mental health services including PTSD programs, women's health, and community living center services. * Supportive environment: Staff consistently report a collegial atmosphere, strong teamwork, and a collaborative culture that bridges VA and Navy medicine traditions. Live and Thrive in North Chicago, Illinois North Chicago offers the convenience of the Chicago metropolitan area combined with the comfort and affordability of a vibrant Lake County community. Community, Culture & Recreation Located along the shores of Lake Michigan in historic Lake County, North Chicago provides residents with a unique blend of small-town charm and metropolitan energy. The community features: * Parks and outdoor activities: The Foss Park District includes parks, golf courses, and access to Lake Michigan beaches for year-round outdoor enjoyment. * Access to cultural attractions: Enjoy easy access to renowned cultural sites on the Chicago North Shore, including the Chicago Botanic Garden, Ravinia Festival (live music and performing arts), and the Northwestern University campus. * Diverse dining and entertainment options: A growing selection of local restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, with the broader North Shore and nearby Chicago offering world-class dining, galleries, live music, and sports. * Family-friendly activities: Bowling alleys, movie theaters, water parks, and community events create an engaging atmosphere for families. Affordable Cost of Living & Housing * Below-average cost of living: The overall cost of living is approximately 2% lower than the national average, making North Chicago an affordable choice compared to many metropolitan areas. * Accessible housing market: Median home values range from $130,000 to $150,000, with rental prices typically between $1,000 and $1,350 per month, offering excellent value. * Strong affordability ratings: Housing and cost-of-living indices are rated favorably, reflecting great value relative to income potential. Safety, Quality Schools & Family-Friendly Neighborhoods * Safe community: North Chicago maintains violent crime rates below national averages, supported by effective property crime prevention and neighborhood safety initiatives. * Quality educational options: The area boasts well-regarded school districts that serve families with children, backed by strong community resources and youth sports programs. * Access to family-friendly neighborhoods: Nearby North Shore suburbs, including Glenview and Wilmette, offer excellent schools, parks, and safe residential areas appealing to families.