Physician Job Description Template

Physician vaccinating a patient.

If you’re hiring a physician for a general practice or a non-specialty position in a hospital setting, chances are you’re looking for an internal doctor (an internist). Often confused with the family medicine specialty because they’re both found in general practice settings, internal medicine is one of the profession’s most common specialties.

Physicians trained in this area use a variety of diagnostic techniques to treat patients with many types of illnesses. Their patients are mostly adults.

Use this physician job description framework to customize your listing and attract the most qualified candidates for your organization.

Physician vaccinating a patient.

Physician

[Intro Paragraph] The introduction of the job description provides candidates with a snapshot of your medical practice, hospital, or other patient care setting. This can include information like how long the practice or hospital has been open, patient care philosophy, values, culture, and whether it’s a research institution. Use the introduction to highlight what sets your practice apart by highlighting community involvement and philanthropy, safety performance awards, industry leadership positions, and patient satisfaction ratings.

Physician Job Responsibilities

  • Discuss medical history with patient to acquire knowledge of healthcare practices.
  • Examine and diagnose patients, create a treatment plan, and perform minor surgeries.
  • Delegate tasks to nurses and staff.
  • Conduct routine and sports physicals.
  • Hire, manage, and supervise employees.
  • Respond to patient questions and health concerns.
  • Prescribe medications and suggest lifestyle changes.
  • Review and retain orderly and well-kept patient records.
  • Collect specimens, refer to laboratory, and assess medical results.
  • Administer topical, oral, intravenous, or intramuscular medications.
  • Communicate pertinent medical records to appropriate specialists as needed.
  • Report diseases, births, and deaths in accordance with government rules.

[Work Hours & Benefits]

Physicians generally work full time, logging long shifts that can include irregular or overnight hours. A physician’s work hours vary depending on the where they work. If you’re hiring a physician to work in a private practice, work hours will typically be normal business hours, and include some early-morning, evening, and Saturday hours to accommodate patient schedules. Hospitals need physicians 24/7, so physicians’ hours may reflect the need for flexibility.

Physicians enjoy some of the highest wages when compared to all other occupations. Employers that hire physicians offer traditional benefits like participation in group health insurance and 401(k) plans. Other benefits may include:

  • Malpractice insurance, life insurance, and short/long term disability insurance
  • Relocation assistance and signing bonuses
  • Generous paid time off
  • Allowances for continuing education and conference attendance
  • Paid expenses: medical license(s), specialty certification, fluoroscopy permit, board certification dues, specialty society dues
  • Quarterly or annual productivity and quality bonuses

Physician Qualifications and Skills

In this section of the physician job description, document both preferred and “wish list” requirements so that candidates most closely aligned with your practice or hospital apply. For example, you may want to state that candidates must be possess:

  • Working knowledge of common diseases and disorders.
  • Effective analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to communicate difficult conversations professionally.
  • Patience, exceptional bedside manner, and the ability to empathize with the patient.
  • Ongoing professional development and conference participation.

Education & Experience Requirements

  • Medical degree from an accredited program required
  • Valid state medical license
  • Proof of successful completion of 3-year residency training program
  • Health board registration mandatory
  • Track record of adhering to healthcare ethical code of conduct
  • Experience with a wide range of medical conditions
  • Strong triage and multitasking skills

[Call to Action] Finally, provide a strong, clear call to action that provides clear instructions on how to apply for the position.

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