Explore Careers

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physicians

Health Science

Service Branches

  • Army logo
  • Air Force logo

Work Environment

Physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians work in hospitals and clinics on land and aboard ships.

  • Military Status

    Officer

  • Average Military Salary

    $123,847

Overview

Physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians examine, diagnose, and treat patients suffering from physical trauma and/or impairments, including those that occurred during combat. They perform sophisticated tests, such as nerve conduction studies, to determine the extent of disability. These physicians provide a wide variety of treatment to patients, including heat and cold therapy, infrared and ultraviolet radiation, and the use of prosthetics.

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 physical medicine and rehabilitation 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
  • Interest in work requiring accuracy and attention to detail