3.2 million.

That’s the number of Veterans living in rural areas who need care from a VA Medical Center. For VA recruiter and Navy Veteran Terrance Anderson, finding the highest quality health care providers for some of VA’s most rural markets is his passion. “I get my care at VA so I am a stakeholder. I am invested in making sure I get the best care for myself and other Veterans. It’s about reaching out to Veterans everywhere and offering the best in care. Veterans deserve that.”

Terry Anderson and Rotary Club Member

Terry poses with a fellow member of the Rotary Club in Shepherdstown, WV.

Prior to joining the Department of Veterans Affairs, Terry served 26 years in the Navy. As a boy growing up in Harlem, NY, Terry admits that he would not have imagined moving his family and career to a rural area. But, when the opportunity presented itself, he soon came to see all that a smaller town offers him and others. “The quality of life is great,” Terry says, “this is living!”

Terry brings that enthusiasm and love for VA to the physicians he talks with on a daily basis. He enjoys meeting people and talking about career opportunities that he feels could change their lives for the better. “I thank God every day for VA. I am very proud to work at VA and recruit some of the finest doctors anywhere.”

The “fit” has to be right for both the physician and the needs of the VAMC. It’s about a lifestyle – rural areas appeal to the whole family. As a doctor in a rural area, you are upwardly mobile and influential. People get to know you in the town. And, rural areas are not lacking in amenities you might want, such as universities offering great cultural and recreational activities, amazing restaurants, family activities, and most important–the time to enjoy them.

VA physicians are fortunate to work in Patient Aligned Care Teams, (PACT), providing patient-centered, team-based care ensuring Veterans receive the top-notch quality care they deserve. Due to this unique health care model, physicians spend more time with each patient than in private sector, and work closely with a team providing all the services that are necessary.

Terry traded in his luxury sedan for a pick-up truck when he moved to Shepherdstown, WV.

Terry traded in his luxury sedan for a pick-up truck when he moved to Shepherdstown, WV.

There is no shortage of technology across all VAMCs, no matter the location. As the leader in telemedicine, VA physicians have access to some of the most advanced technology in the nation. Using technology, like telehealth services, VA is increasing the availability of care while also alleviating Veterans’ time and effort commuting to the nearest clinic. By removing barriers to care, VA’s Office of Rural Health supports the needs of Veterans living in geographically remote areas.

We encourage physicians and other dedicated health care professionals to consider working with Veterans across the country, including our more remote locations. This mission is critical to providing care to all Veterans, no matter where they reside. As Terry says, “My heart right now is rural – people here are just genuine.”

Learn more about career opportunities around the country, connect with recruiters and apply for a job today at VAcareers.va.gov.

Topics in this story

Leave a comment

The comments section is for opinions and feedback on this particular article; this is not a customer support channel. If you are looking for assistance, please visit Ask VA or call 1-800-698-2411. Please, never put personally identifiable information (SSAN, address, phone number, etc.) or protected health information into the form — it will be deleted for your protection.

More Stories