Posted on 08/05/2012 8:38:33 AM PDT by urtax$@work
Need advice for a new employee to the Veteran Administration (Hospital). Any FReepers with prior experience that could advise best ways to advance in the VA.? (yes-work hard a given) Are there any quirks specific to that administration one should know?
This individual is young professional in a technical field. Does not want a DC job but would be working at a hospital in the contiguous United States.
Only one suggestion, Treat the Vets like they are the most important person you will ever meet. Because they are.
Never ever call a him or her by their first name, unless their first mane is Mr. or Mrs or Miss.
Only one suggestion, Treat the Vets like they are the most important person you will ever meet. Because they are.
Never ever call him or her by their first name, unless their first nane is Mr. or Mrs or Miss.
Same as any job...be enthusiatic.....even if you don’t feel good. Treat them as if they were your parents they most likely are some ones parent.Be tolerant when they are not...REMEMBER “ they’re sick”.
I agree with your suggestion about respect for veterans. In my training I have rotated through good VA hospitals, and through those that would make you shocked and angry at the way veterans were treated. There was one veteran I remember who was tied up in restraints (for confusion), and they were bringing him food trays and putting them in front of him without either assisting him to eat, or removing the restraints. After an hour they would come back and take the uneaten food tray away. Absolutely true story personally witnessed.
In general, the VA system tends to be very political, and politically correct. It’s hard for anyone to get fired, so bad employees often get bumped ‘up’ to higher paying jobs that at least keep them away from direct patient contact.
There was a time when most VA hospitals were run with a high percentage of foreign docs, which I felt was unfair to those who have sacrificed to protect the lives of American citizens. This has improved at many VA hospitals, but
Anyway, sorry to be negative. Just being honest. In terms of advice on advancement, don’t ever rock the boat. Go along and get along, and you’ll last long.
I would recommend you tell your friend to remember that many of the veterans who use the VA system are lonely and enjoy sharing their stories. Be patient and make time to listen,
Remember that they not only need physical care, but often times need mental care too.
I admire anyone who chooses to work at a VA hospital over a "big city" job. The pay isn't as good, but the rewards can be priceless!
(perhaps my tagline is appropriate to the thread)
For most government jobs, the key is to be at least a two-fer. Minority, female, handicapped, pervert. If you are a MAWG, forget advancement and try to hold on by doing both your work and the work of the two-fers.
First, keep your nose clean, arrive early at your job, look presentable.
Second, remember that the VA keeps tabs on ANYTHING you do. So, do it right the first time, with your knowledge and expediency as your guide.
Third, no matter how many years of other government service you might have, get your three years down with the VA. Why? I had over 21 years milciv service combined, but 2 years and 9 months VA time, when that little storm named Katrina came along. Because I did NOT have 3 years time in, I was cut.
Fourth, VA regs are SUPER strict about even mentioning a patient!
Fifth, yes, you are now a VA employee. BTW, you will be contacted about joining the local union outfit.
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