VA Announces: Increased Scheduling Flexibility for Physicians and Dentists

At VA, we believe in a strong work/life balance, which is why we offer generous vacation time for our physicians and dentists, as well as a more predictable work schedule. This commitment to our employees’ satisfaction underscores our mission to provide the best care to our Nation’s Veterans.

On Friday, November 7, 2014, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced a change in the administrative workweek for Physicians and Dentists, increasing scheduling flexibility for facilities and employees alike.

Before the policy change, doctors and dentists were required to work five 8-hour days a week. Due to their pay and overtime structure, it was difficult to staff extended hours or shorter, weekend clinic hours.

Now facilities can continue to schedule the basic workweek as five 8-hour days, or schedule the required 40 hours over 7 days with tours of duty or shifts between 2 hours and 12 hours. The schedule can vary every week. This allows physicians or dentists who stay later or who come in on the weekend to work a clinic to have a shorter day elsewhere in the workweek. For example, an individual could be scheduled to work 12 hours on Tuesday but then only have a 4-hour day on Friday.

VA is consistently working to attract and retain top healthcare talent by modifying and modernizing our system. If you are interested in pursuing a rewarding career at VA, with more time off for your personal life, visit us at VAcareers.va.gov to apply!