Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physicians (Officer)
Opportunities
Physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians examine, diagnose, and treat patients suffering from physical trauma and/or impairments, including those that occurred during combat. They perform sophisticated tests, such as nerve conduction studies, to determine the extent of disability. These physicians provide a wide variety of treatment to patients, including heat and cold therapy, infrared and ultraviolet radiation, and the use of prosthetics.
Training Provided
Job training for physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians primarily consists of on-the-job learning in various training environments. Scholarships for advanced medical training are available in return for an obligated period of military service. Qualifying students benefit through unique training experiences and get to attend certain military short courses designed to develop tactical, technical and operational skills unique to the military environment.
- Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety/TeamSTEPPS® Essentials and Fundamentals
- Mishap Investigation and Prevention
- Operational Aeromedical Problems
- Senior Leadership
- Joint Operations Medical Management
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Like other officers working in healthcare, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, orientation to military structure, healthcare and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.
Earnings
Officers in the military can progress through ten officer pay grades during their careers. Pay grade and length of service determine an officer's pay. Most newly commissioned officers begin at pay grade O-1 ($45,912/year basic pay in 2024). With certain professional qualifications, officers may enter at a higher pay grade. After two years, officers generally move up to O-2 ($60,252/year basic pay in 2024). After an additional two years, the military generally promotes officers to O-3 ($81,672/year basic pay in 2024) if job performance and other requirements are met. Cost-of-living increases usually occur once a year. Many officers and their families live free of charge in military housing on the base where they are assigned. Those living off base receive a housing allowance in addition to their basic pay. Officers also receive a monthly food allowance. These allowances, and associated tax savings, are substantial additions to basic pay. Other employment benefits for military officers include free health care, 30 days paid vacation each year, legal assistance, education assistance, military store privileges, and an excellent retirement program.
Services offering this occupation
Air Force
Army