Are there any NPs here working in the VA?

[orangepink, NP]

I'm interested in applying in the VA and would like to ask the NPs who are working there about work life. My questions are:

-do you work in a outpatient clinic, hospital or both?

-do you have a MD supervisor? If so, which state are you working?

-one of the reasons why I'm interested is because from what I hear, the benefits are excellent with a more manageable patient workload but this is all heresay.

I appreciate any insight.

[PG2018]

The benefits may be good but the pay isn't. You can find a higher paying job offset the benefits. I don't get the benefit draw.

[orangepink, NP]

Pls correct me if I'm wrong ... would being in a specialty and/or having a doctorate increase the pay raise though? I work in for profit hospital right now and they really don't care if I have a doctorate.

[katduqrn]

I've worked for the VA for 2 years as a NP and the salary is competitive in my area. Salary is set by a board and is dependent on how you answer the questions that are presented to the board. VA NPs work in all areas of the VA from primary care, long term care, ER and specialties. The benefits are great. 5 weeks vacation, 5 weeks sick leave per year, plus all federal holidays off. I don't receive health benefits so unsure the cost. Plus COLA almost every year. My COLA has been higher than my raises at civilian places. VA is not perfect and can be frustrating sometimes but it is a good place to work. I'm glad I made the choices to work there.

[Jules A, MSN]

Pls correct me if I'm wrong ... would being in a specialty and/or having a doctorate increase the pay raise though? I work in for profit hospital right now and they really don't care if I have a doctorate.

From what I hear it is the same in this area. Unless you are attempting to teach at a University no one cares if you have a doctorate or if they do care they don't care enough to pay any extra.