Top 10 reasons to work at a rural VA
Why should you work in a rural community? Discover the benefits and perks that might encourage you to take your expertise to a rural VA facility.
The best patients — Veterans!
With almost a quarter of all U.S. Veterans living in rural communities, you’ll have the opportunity to work with the best patients and help bridge the gap in access to health care.
Strong rural values
Find a strong sense of community in rural areas. Use your relocation as a chance to move closer to family and rediscover your roots. Other perks include a lower cost of living, more space and access to nature, and smaller caseloads, meaning more time with your patients.
The mission to serve America
We are united to deliver on President Lincoln’s promise to honor and care for the brave men and women across America who put their lives on the line to protect our country.
Nation’s largest health care system
Each year, we serve over 9 million Veterans in 1,200+ health care facilities throughout all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. Work at one of 17 high-need facilities in rural communities.
Innovation and cutting-edge technology
Our rural facilities offer state-of-the-art tools, including speech-recognition capabilities, virtual technologies, mobile devices, and renowned knowledge-based resources.
Education support
We offer a broad range of scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and loan repayment programs, as well as other educational opportunities to help you in your lifelong quest for learning.
Exceptional career benefits
Receive generous vacation and personal leave, including 13-26 paid days off, 13 sick days, and 11 paid federal holidays. Plan for the future with access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), life insurance, and long-term care insurance. Get protection from malpractice lawsuits, at no cost to you, under federal tort laws. Benefit from on-site childcare.
Team-based, patient-focused
Dedicated professionals work together in Patient Aligned Care Teams (PACT) to coordinate Veterans care and promote total health and wellness. We integrate across the continuum of care — including providing mental health integration in clinical practice and embedding clinical pharmacists in primary care. Never carry a caseload alone—your team will be there every step of the way.
Live and work anywhere
One active, unrestricted state license allows you to practice in any VA facility nationwide. Wherever life may lead, you can seek employment at any facility with an open position and transfer with no loss of benefits. With our integrated system, you’re free to explore new areas of career development and pursue opportunities anywhere within VA.
Leadership training
We offer ongoing internal training opportunities to employees at all employment levels, from mandatory developmental programs to competitive opportunities. Through our Leadership Development Framework (LDF), targeted learning and development resources support you in both your career and at home.
I’m surrounded by that small-town feel. I’m surrounded by that connection to the community.
Curtis Raybuck
Supervisory Human Resources Specialist
