Community Health Center Physician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, the role of community health center physicians is becoming increasingly crucial.

As society becomes more health-conscious and the demand for quality healthcare services continues to rise, the need for skilled, empathetic, and community-focused physicians becomes even more paramount.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a community health center physician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the comprehensive nature of this role,
• A healthcare center manager looking to identify the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the dynamic field of community healthcare,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable community health center physician job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Community Health Center Physician Duties and Responsibilities

Community Health Center Physicians focus on the promotion of health, the prevention of disease and injury, and the management of illness and disability in the community.

They serve a diverse patient population, treating a wide range of medical conditions and working closely with other healthcare professionals and community resources.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating patient health by conducting physical examinations and interpreting results
• Diagnosing health problems and managing chronic diseases
• Administering treatment for acute and chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease
• Prescribing and administering medication, therapy, and other specialized medical care to treat or prevent illness, disease, or injury
• Providing prenatal care to pregnant women, delivering babies, and providing postnatal care to mothers and infants
• Performing minor surgical procedures
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to plan and coordinate patient care
• Referring patients to medical specialists or other practitioners when necessary
• Advocating for patients to ensure they receive appropriate health services
• Participating in community health education and outreach programs
• Maintaining patient confidentiality and following all ethical guidelines and standards of medical care
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest medical research and using this information to improve patient care

 

Community Health Center Physician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Community Health Center Physician to provide comprehensive healthcare services to a diverse patient population.

The Community Health Center Physician’s responsibilities will include diagnosing and treating health conditions, promoting disease prevention and healthy lifestyles, and providing patient education.

Our ideal candidate is an empathetic healthcare professional with excellent clinical skills and a deep understanding of community health issues.

The ability to communicate effectively in various languages and cultures will be beneficial.

Ultimately, the Community Health Center Physician should be committed to improving the health and well-being of the community by providing high-quality, accessible healthcare services.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive primary care services to a diverse patient population.
• Diagnose and manage a wide array of health conditions, including chronic illnesses.
• Develop and implement patient management plans, record progress notes, and assist in the provision of continuity of care.
• Perform minor surgical procedures and other treatments as necessary.
• Coordinate patient care with other healthcare professionals and refer patients to specialists when necessary.
• Promote disease prevention and healthy living through education and counseling.
• Adhere to clinical standards, policies, and procedures.
• Participate in community health initiatives and outreach programs.

 

Qualifications

• Medical degree (MD or DO) from an accredited medical school.
• Valid license to practice medicine in the state.
• Board certification in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, or a related field.
• Experience providing primary care services in a community health setting.
• Excellent clinical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work with diverse populations and understand community health issues.
• Proficiency in medical record-keeping and documentation.

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off, including holidays
• Continuing education reimbursement
• Loan repayment assistance
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Community Health Center Physician
• Work Environment: Community health center setting. May require occasional evening or weekend hours. Minimal travel for outreach programs or continuing education.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Medical Director or Chief Medical Officer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $180,000 minimum to $250,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Community Health Center Physician Do?

Community Health Center Physicians work in community health centers where they provide primary healthcare services to the local population.

They treat a wide range of health issues, from common illnesses to chronic diseases.

Their primary responsibilities include diagnosing and treating health conditions, performing routine check-ups, and providing preventive care such as vaccinations and health education to patients.

Community Health Center Physicians manage all aspects of patient care, from initial consultation to recovery.

They work closely with other healthcare professionals such as nurses and medical assistants to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care.

These physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients seeking medical assistance.

They assess patient health conditions, order and interpret diagnostic tests, write prescriptions, and refer patients to specialists when necessary.

In addition, they frequently address health issues that stem from the socioeconomic conditions of the communities they serve.

This might involve advocating for access to healthier foods, better housing conditions, or more exercise opportunities in their communities.

Community Health Center Physicians play a critical role in monitoring and improving the health of their communities, often working with community leaders and public health agencies to design and implement health improvement strategies.

They also participate in community outreach events to promote health awareness and preventive care.

 

Community Health Center Physician Qualifications and Skills

A Community Health Center Physician should possess a range of professional competencies, interpersonal skills, and medical knowledge to ensure the health and well-being of the community, such as:

• Doctor of Medicine degree (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy degree (DO) from an accredited institution, along with a valid licensure and board certification to practice medicine.
• Experience in community or public health settings, demonstrating the ability to manage a diverse range of medical conditions.
• Outstanding diagnostic abilities and clinical skills to provide high-quality care to patients of all ages and health conditions.
• Interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals, fostering a supportive community environment.
• Excellent communication skills to explain complex medical information in an understandable manner to patients and their families.
• Empathy and compassion to understand and address the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients.
• Strong leadership skills to coordinate and manage a team of healthcare professionals, ensuring efficient patient care.
• Ability to work in high-stress environments, demonstrating resilience and stress-management skills.
• Continuing education to stay updated with the latest medical research, treatments, and healthcare technology.

 

Community Health Center Physician Experience Requirements

To become a Community Health Center Physician, significant clinical experience is usually required.

This starts with obtaining a medical degree, which includes two years of clinical rotations in various specialties.

Upon completion of a medical degree, aspiring physicians must complete a residency program, which can last from 3 to 7 years depending on the specialty.

During this time, physicians gain hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating a variety of health conditions under the supervision of experienced doctors.

For a Community Health Center Physician, a residency in family medicine, internal medicine, or pediatrics is often required.

Some physicians may also opt to further specialize in areas like women’s health or geriatric care, which requires additional years of fellowship training.

Upon completion of their residency or fellowship, doctors often have between 3 to 10 years of medical experience.

In addition to clinical experience, it can be beneficial for Community Health Center Physicians to have experience working in a community setting.

This can include volunteering at local health clinics, participating in public health initiatives, or working in underserved areas.

Those with more than 5 years of experience as a practicing physician may have some leadership or managerial experience and may be prepared for a director or administrative role within a community health center.

Continuous medical education is expected throughout a physician’s career to stay up-to-date with advancements in medicine and maintain licensure.

 

Community Health Center Physician Education and Training Requirements

Community Health Center Physicians typically have a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree, which are among the highest educational qualifications in the healthcare industry.

The path to becoming a physician often begins with a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field such as biology or chemistry, followed by four years of medical school and a residency program that can last anywhere from three to seven years, depending on the chosen specialty.

Being Board Certified in Family Medicine or Internal Medicine is highly recommended for a Community Health Center Physician.

This certification provides additional training and professional development in medical areas most commonly seen in community health centers.

In addition, licensing is required to practice medicine, with requirements varying from state to state.

Generally, licensing includes completing a residency, passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), and meeting all other state-specific requirements.

Many physicians in this role also choose to complete additional training in public health, health policy, or similar areas to better understand the unique needs and challenges of working within a community health center.

Furthermore, these physicians must possess excellent communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and a deep understanding of health disparities to serve diverse populations effectively.

Continued medical education (CME) is also important for physicians to stay abreast of the latest advancements in healthcare and to maintain licensure and board certification.

 

Community Health Center Physician Salary Expectations

A Community Health Center Physician earns an average salary of $189,000 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary greatly based on factors such as years of experience, specialized training, and the geographical location of the health center.

 

Community Health Center Physician Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Community Health Center Physician need?

A Community Health Center Physician requires strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with a diverse patient population.

They also need to have excellent diagnostic skills, an ability to manage a wide range of health conditions, and a strong knowledge base of common diseases and their treatments.

Organizational and time-management skills are essential for managing multiple patients and tasks.

 

Do Community Health Center Physicians need a degree?

Yes, Community Health Center Physicians must have a medical degree from an accredited school.

They must also complete a residency program and be licensed in the state where they practice.

Board certification in Family Medicine or Internal Medicine is often required.

 

What should you look for in a Community Health Center Physician resume?

A resume for a Community Health Center Physician should show that the candidate has a medical degree, completed a residency program, and has a current state license.

It should also detail experience in a community health setting or with underserved populations, as well as any additional certifications or specialties.

Check for any skills or experiences that align with your clinic’s particular needs, such as language skills or experience with specific populations.

 

What qualities make a good Community Health Center Physician?

A good Community Health Center Physician is compassionate and empathetic, with the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population.

They should be committed to providing quality healthcare to underserved communities and be able to adapt to the unique challenges that come with working in a community health center.

They should also have a broad knowledge of medical conditions and treatments, as they will likely see a wide range of health issues.

 

What are the challenges of hiring a Community Health Center Physician?

Hiring a Community Health Center Physician can be challenging due to the need for a high level of experience and specialization, coupled with the ability to handle a diverse range of medical conditions.

Additionally, community health centers often operate on tight budgets, making it difficult to compete with salaries offered by private practices and hospitals.

Offering a meaningful work environment where physicians can make a significant impact on community health can be a key selling point.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true essence of being a Community Health Center Physician.

And guess what?

It’s not just about treating illnesses.

It’s about nurturing the health and well-being of a community, one patient at a time.

With our comprehensive Community Health Center Physician job description template and real-world examples, you’re all geared up to find your place in this valuable field.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient you serve is a vital thread in the fabric of your community.

Let’s nurture that community. Together.

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