Chief of Medicine

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 is the nation's first fully integrated Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense health care facility, caring for Veterans, active-duty service members, retirees, and their families in one coordinated system. As Chief of Medicine, you will shape clinical care, operations, and strategy across a broad range of medicine subspecialties in a truly joint environment.

Key Leadership Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership for Medicine services, including cardiology, gastroenterology, hematology/oncology, pulmonary/critical care, neurology, nephrology, rheumatology, dermatology, endocrinology, hospitalist and intensivist programs.

• Maintain an active clinical panel (at least 20% time) while directing approximately 80% effort toward strategic, operational, and quality leadership.

• Plan and oversee resource management for Medicine (budget, FTE, space, equipment, and long-range capital needs) in collaboration with senior leadership and VISN 12.

• Recruit, develop, evaluate, and mentor interdisciplinary staff; set performance standards; oversee promotions, discipline, and training.

• Ensure compliance with VA, VISN 12, and Navy Medicine policies while advancing evidence-based practice, patient safety, and performance improvement.

• Serve as a key member and/or chair of FHCC governance bodies and represent Medicine in local and national committees.

Preferred Background

• At least 5 years of clinical practice experience and 5 years of progressive supervisory or service-line leadership.

• Demonstrated success in program development, quality improvement, and interprofessional collaboration in complex health systems.

• Familiarity with VA or military medicine is highly desirable given the integrated VA–Navy mission.

Exceptional Federal Total Rewards Package

The VA offers a comprehensive total rewards package for physicians that combines competitive compensation with generous paid time off and robust retirement security.

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 support 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 : 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 carry into retirement.

• Malpractice coverage : Free liability protection with tail coverage provided through the federal government.

Schedule

• Standard Monday–Friday schedule : 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., supporting a balanced professional and personal life.

Why Lovell FHCC

Lovell FHCC offers an opportunity to practice mission-driven medicine in a team-based, integrated setting serving a uniquely diverse patient population

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

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

• Collegial environment : Staff consistently highlight supportive colleagues, strong teamwork, and a collaborative culture bridging VA and Navy medicine traditions.

Live and Thrive in North Chicago, Illinois

North Chicago combines the accessibility of the Chicago metropolitan region with the comfort and affordability of a vibrant Lake County community.

Community, Culture & Recreation

North Chicago nestles along the shores of Lake Michigan in historic Lake County, offering residents a unique blend of small-town charm and metropolitan vibes. The community features:

• Parks and outdoor recreation : Foss Park District with parks, golf courses, and Lake Michigan beach access for year-round outdoor activity.

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

• Diverse dining and entertainment : 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 : Overall cost of living is approximately 2% lower than the national average, making North Chicago an affordable alternative to many metropolitan areas.

• Accessible housing market : Median home values in the $130,000–$150,000 range and rental costs typically $1,000–$1,350/month offer 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 with strong property crime prevention and neighborhood safety programs.

• Quality school options : The area features well-regarded school districts serving families with children, supported 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.