Skip to site content
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Careers@IHS

Commissioned Corps

Doctor in uniform

The federal government also offers a career path through the Commissioned Corps of the US Public Health Service (USPHS). Health professionals interested in pursuing this path will serve as a commissioned officer assigned to the Indian Health Service for a minimum two-year service commitment.

The USPHS is one of the seven Uniformed Services of the United States. However, it is not a branch of the Armed Forces. It provides a spectrum of outstanding federal benefits available to all Uniformed Services.

Benefits

  • Accession bonus (sign-up bonus) varies by specialty and requirement.
  • 30 days paid vacation.
  • 10 paid federal holidays.
  • Sick leave as needed.
  • Comprehensive health care.
  • Tax-free subsistence housing allowance.
  • No-cost malpractice coverage.
  • Non-contributory retirement.
  • Thrift savings (contributory) retirement.
  • Annual continuing education where available.
  • Space-available flights on military aircraft.

Eligibility Requirements

  • US citizenship.
  • Physical examination.
  • Minimum two-year commitment.
  • Must be under 44 at the time of commission.

Visit the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  website for more information on employment and benefits as a Commissioned Corps officer.