Chief of Medicine

Job Description

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 in the nation, combining the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense. This center serves Veterans, active-duty personnel, retirees, and their families within a unified system. As the Chief of Medicine, you will influence clinical care, operational strategies, and management across various medical subspecialties in a collaborative environment.

Key Leadership Responsibilities

• Provide executive oversight for Medicine services, which encompass cardiology, gastroenterology, hematology/oncology, pulmonary/critical care, neurology, nephrology, rheumatology, dermatology, endocrinology, as well as hospitalist and intensivist programs.

• Maintain an active clinical practice (spending at least 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 supervisory or service-line leadership.

• Proven track record in program development, quality improvement, and interprofessional collaboration within complex health 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 pay with generous paid time off and strong 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, depending on specialty and program approval.

• Relocation assistance : Potential sign-on bonus 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 physician employment contract with minimal restrictions on moonlighting.

Retirement, Insurance & Liability

• Federal pension : 5-year vesting plus Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with up to 5% agency contributions.

• Comprehensive federal insurance : Health, vision, dental, life, and long-term care coverage, many of which extend into retirement.

• Malpractice coverage : Free liability protection with tail coverage provided by 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 Lovell FHCC

Lovell FHCC provides an opportunity to engage in mission-driven medicine within a team-oriented, integrated environment serving a uniquely diverse patient population.

• Integrated mission : Provide care for Veterans alongside active-duty Sailors, recruits at Naval Station Great Lakes, retirees, and family members in the only fully integrated VA-DoD facility in the nation.

• Comprehensive services on site : A full range of medical and surgical specialties, mental health services including PTSD programs, women's health, and community living center services.

• Collegial environment : Staff consistently emphasize supportive colleagues, strong teamwork, and a collaborative culture bridging 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

North Chicago is situated along the shores of Lake Michigan in historic Lake County, providing residents with a unique mix of small-town charm and metropolitan energy. The community features:

• Parks and outdoor recreation : Foss Park District includes parks, golf courses, and access to Lake Michigan beaches for year-round outdoor activities.

• Proximity to cultural attractions : Easy access to the renowned cultural destinations of the Chicago North Shore, including the Chicago Botanic Garden, Ravinia Festival (live music and performing arts), and Northwestern University campus.

• Diverse dining and entertainment : A growing selection of local restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The broader North Shore and nearby Chicago offer world-class dining, galleries, live music, and sports.

• Family activities : Bowling alleys, movie theaters, water parks, and community events create an engaging environment 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 costs typically between $1,000 and $1,350 per month, offering excellent value compared to regional alternatives.

• Strong affordability ratings : Housing and cost-of-living indices are rated favorably, reflecting excellent value relative to income potential.

Safety, Quality Schools & Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

• Safe community : North Chicago maintains violent crime rates below national averages, supported by strong property crime prevention and neighborhood safety initiatives.

• Quality school options : The area boasts well-regarded school districts that serve families with children, bolstered 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 communities with strong family appeal.