Ask a Nurse: What Are the Benefits of a Career with VA?

VA offers many rewarding opportunities to advanced practice nurses interested in caring for America’s Veterans. So, to help you understand why you should consider a future with us, we chatted with Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Edith Gabor, who started her nursing career at a VA Medical Center, and then went to the private sector before rejoining our organization a few years ago.

What made you decide to come back to VA?

In addition to outstanding benefits, VA gives me the chance to serve those who’ve served our country. I enjoy being at the center of their care, as part of an integrated multidisciplinary team that’s passionate about helping others.

What are some other advantages to working here?

VA’s advanced practice nurses have ample time with patients and a great deal of autonomy, which allows a holistic approach to treatment. We also receive a wealth of education support that helps us continuously grow as professionals.

What makes now an exciting time to carry out VA’s mission?

We’re doing more initiatives for hypertension and diabetes, and the introduction of onsite pharmacists will help us more easily manage the care of some of our patients.

What kind of experience do nurse practitioners need to succeed here?

You should have at least two years of nursing experience. This must include experience treating patients with special needs, because we serve a unique patient population. In addition, candidates must have a Master’s degree in Nursing (from a NLNAC or CCNE accredited program), must be licensed as a nurse practitioner in a U.S. State, and be a certified nurse practitioner from the American Nurses Association or other recognized body. VA has opportunities for nurse practitioners in several U.S. States across the country.