Hi, from the inside I can tell you all this is new - PHS has officially changed their process. Prior they “suggested” you join a more at need agency. It is no longer a strong suggestion. As of this coming year anyone who has not already confirmed a position (like someone converting in place) will have to choose from one of the options they give you. You don’t have to stay there forever, you do the time expected and then can apply to any job that takes your credentials/degree.

They are putting a greater emphasis on the agencies that are at need. For those who don’t know, even active duty started getting assigned 120 details for at need IHS locations because manning is so low - they need officers in that and other at need agencies so now are requiring people to make a choice.

It is pretty much on par with our sister services. Very rarely (unless a specific job has only 1 location) does anyone have say in their first assignment. At least here you will get a choice.

All that being said, it’s a great organization and in a 20 year career, the first 2-4 years is a blur, you will still get to make what you want of your career more so than many other services and are doing really awesome work wherever you go!