USPHS

cutiepie_318 · Jul 19, 2009, 09:53 AM

Re: USPHS

Do you like working for them? What do u like the most and the least and do you have any advice for me as far as things I should be mindful of?

just_cause · Jul 19, 2009, 01:44 PM

Re: USPHS

I think the USPHS is very interesting based on the wide # of different agencies that you could work for - and the amount of input or selection that you have to accept working by location and agency... this is more individual control or choice then you have in military branches. That being said I can only imagine a wide ranging type of environment based on where you are interested in working based on available slots. I'd look at the slots available from USPHS by agency/location of your interest and then try and narrow down feedback based on some agencies or locations you are interested in.
v/r

viper16731 · Jul 19, 2009, 07:53 PM

Re: USPHS

I really am happy that there are more people who I can communicate with openly. I am right now trying to get my packet together to send. I really am trying to get a mental health job with the military through the mental health initive. I think its ironic that they are still saying that it will take 6 months to complete the process, while I am currently working at the VA in Topeka, KS. I really want to get in the program because I already have about 4 years in the army so I need at least 16 years to get to retirement. Does anyone feel like they get looked down on while in uniform at their jobs? Is it as frustrating to get hold of others in command or in personel in the PHS? Does anyone know they calculate you rank when you come in?

Thanks again.

soso · Jul 19, 2009, 09:30 PM

Re: USPHS

I know it states there are many positions within USPHS but I am still finding that the majority of the positions are in Indian Health, BOP and Immigration Health. Is there anyone who has worked in agencies different from these?

rcjohnis · Jul 20, 2009, 11:25 AM

Re: USPHS

Hi chesrae,

Got got a job offer with FCC Tucson and they want me to start August 16th. The problem is with PHS. My CAM transferred in May and it is July and I don't have a replacement. PHS recieved my 1662, logged in but not on Management Info System so that I can see it. I have all my medical and school/professional paperwork in but no joy when I call. Any pointers?

Also being SRCOSTEP did you get a signing bonus? Is it something you have to ask to BOP for or is it up to PHS?

rcjohnis · Jul 20, 2009, 11:38 AM

Re: USPHS

Originally Posted by goldensfo

BSN 317: that's great news! congrats. I actually had an interview with the BOP. They said they would let me know their decision in 2 weeks. keep my fingers crossed... But I didn't know you had to ask them about the bonus during the interview. my CAM was transfered out of PHS 1 month ago, and they still haven't given me a new CAM. can't believe it.. no help from them at all!!!

AWanderingMinstral: which school are you going to for your MPH?

goldensfo,

It sounds like we are in the same boat.

chesrae · Jul 20, 2009, 01:49 PM

Re: USPHS

Originally Posted by cutiepie_318

Do you like working for them? What do u like the most and the least and do you have any advice for me as far as things I should be mindful of?

So far I definitely like working for them. Keep in mind though you really aren't working for PHS but for the agency your assigned. I imagine working for IHS is extremely different from BOP where I work. I am still new so I cant give too much advice. Keep in mind that you are in a certain sense your own HR department. You are responsible for making sure everything is in order as far as paperwork and promotions. Keep calling if something needs to be done on their end.

chesrae · Jul 20, 2009, 01:50 PM

Re: USPHS

Originally Posted by rcjohnis

Hi chesrae,

Got got a job offer with FCC Tucson and they want me to start August 16th. The problem is with PHS. My CAM transferred in May and it is July and I don't have a replacement. PHS recieved my 1662, logged in but not on Management Info System so that I can see it. I have all my medical and school/professional paperwork in but no joy when I call. Any pointers?

Also being SRCOSTEP did you get a signing bonus? Is it something you have to ask to BOP for or is it up to PHS?

Being SRCOSTEP disqualifies me from the signing bonus. But I did get full pay and benefits for my senior year of school which more than makes up for that negative. Who or what department are you calling? Make sure you are calling the correct person/department.

rcjohnis · Jul 20, 2009, 02:09 PM

Re: USPHS

Originally Posted by chesrae

Being SRCOSTEP disqualifies me from the signing bonus. But I did get full pay and benefits for my senior year of school which more than makes up for that negative. Who or what department are you calling? Make sure you are calling the correct person/department.

Chesrae,
I have been speaking with an officer in the Divison of CC Assignments, my old CAM's voive mail gave me a name to contact.

I just checked again today (3rd time) and the MIS website shows that my Board is completed. Sounds promising.

Where did you get your nametags and uniforms?

chesrae · Jul 20, 2009, 03:18 PM

Re: USPHS

Originally Posted by rcjohnis

Chesrae,
I have been speaking with an officer in the Divison of CC Assignments, my old CAM's voive mail gave me a name to contact.

I just checked again today (3rd time) and the MIS website shows that my Board is completed. Sounds promising.

Where did you get your nametags and uniforms?

If it says your Board is completed that should be a very good sign. You'll get used to the pace at which PHS moves eventually.

For uniforms I would recommend against ordering online. Call a navy uniform shop and they should be able to help you. 301-295-1489 This is the number for Bethesda which I used. You will probably be wearing the Navy coverall which they should do the name tag for you, although you will need other dress uniforms for other occasions. Do a google for "PHS device supply center" for other PHS items such as name tags for your other uniforms.

The best advice I could give you is to try and contact a PHS officer at your duty station. They will be your best resource for how things run at that specific institution. I was allowed to wear civilian clothing for my first two weeks till I got my uniform.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

New To Site	Need Help	Quick Links
Create An Account General Site Map allnurses.com Journals Terms Of Service Privacy Policy Testimonials Meet Our Staff Advertising Information	Information Center & FAQ Boards of Nursing How-To Video Tutorials Did you forget your password? Compare Membership Contact allnurses.com Text Version Mark All Sections As Read	United States Nursing International Nursing Nursing Specialty Advanced Practice Nursing Critical Care Nursing Nursing Specialties Get In Touch... Find Us On Facebook Follow Us On Twitter

USPHS

Nursing News

California Imposes Stricter Rules Regarding Drug Abuse In...

Are older nurses being forced out of the profession?

An outlook in California?

Australian surgeons successfully separate conjoined twins

Disruptive behavior by doctors, nurses persists a year...

Woman sues after police tackle her in ER during premature...

Beyond The Last Lecture -For Randy & Jai Pausch nurses...

WHO: Give at-risk groups anti-flu drugs early

Nursing, medical schools should work together, experts say

Army nurse honored after 100th birthday

Nursing Articles

Society Needs Care Too

Why am I doing this, anyway?

Nurse Heal Thyself

My Papa, why I am the nurse I am today.

I made it through

An angel's gaze

A Sister Never Forgets

Ruby's Marbles

What Do Operating Room Nurses Do?

My Little Old Jedi

I love this job......

"I hear voices"

Preventing FRUTI (Foley Related Urinary Tract Infection) in...

Error and Attitude

It's Just a Shower

Available Topics (tags)