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Family/General Practitioners

Health Science

Service Branches

  • Army logo
  • navy logo
  • Air Force logo

Work Environment

Family/general practitioners work in hospitals and clinics on land and aboard ships.

  • Military Status

    Officer

  • Average Military Salary

    $112,508

Overview

Family/general practitioners have a variety of responsibilities, including diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries, prescribing and administering treatments including medication, and requesting and evaluating tests. When needed, these general practitioners may refer a patient to a specialist.

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 family/general practitionerss 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
  • Interest in work requiring accuracy and attention to detail

Related Civilian Careers

  • Clinical Nurse Specialists
  • Medical and Health Services Managers

Featured Career Story

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Air Force logo Officer
Health Science

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