Service Branches
Work Environment
Occupational medicine physicians work in hospitals and clinics on land and aboard ships.
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Military Status
Officer
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Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$107,429
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
$26,780 - $362,582
Overview
Military occupational medicine physicians establish procedures to identify occupational hazards, notify appropriate agencies of occupational disease or injuries, and investigate job-related injuries and illnesses. They coordinate and administer programs that deal with employee leave resulting from illness/injury and the logistics of a return to work. They advise management on federal laws and serve as a liaison with federal, state, and local agencies.
Military Training
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. Job training for occupational medicine 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. 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. Job-specific training content may include:
- 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
Helpful Attributes
- Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely
- Desire to help others
- Professionalism
- Interpersonal and communication skills
- Curiosity
- Decision-making and integration skills
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Interest in work requiring accuracy and attention to detail
Related Civilian Careers
- Medical and Health Services Managers
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
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