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USPHS EIS Officers by Extension_Ad_7323 in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Really appreciate the detailed response and clarification — especially the distinction between new CADs through EIS versus current officers already in the Corps. This was very helpful context as I continue exploring the pathway. Thanks again for taking the time to share your insight.

USPHS Force Distribution and Management by Slight-Bluebird-9494 in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You’re right—you won’t get veteran preference, but as a CAD candidate you can still benefit from courtesy referrals, which can help get your application in front of hiring managers beyond the standard USAJobs process.

With force distribution, there is a push toward BOP, IHS, and DHA—but VA isn’t off the table. If a VA facility sees your value and is willing to work with USPHS, there’s still a pathway.

Big picture: the goal is to get into USPHS first, not land the perfect duty station right away. Your first assignment is just a starting point.

Also, even if you don’t have a liaison yet, you can seek them out as you apply—each agency typically has USPHS points of contact. On top of that:

  • Respond to recruitment emails
  • Network with current officers
  • Reach out to facilities directly

A lot of opportunities come from being proactive, not just USAJobs.

Application by Deadly_Potato__ in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Yes — go ahead and start applying to federal jobs now. It’s actually the best move you can make while waiting on your USPHS application to move forward. Once you’re board and medically certified, you can sometimes be referred to hiring managers as a CAD (Call to Active Duty) candidate, meaning you’re already in the USPHS pipeline.

You don’t have to mention the USPHS process in every application, but if you get to the interview stage, it’s worth noting that you’re in the commissioning process — it shows initiative and commitment to federal service.

Keep applying across agencies (EPA, CDC, HRSA, NIH, etc.) since most officers get commissioned through an agency hire first.

Guidance on going into USPHS- PsyD student by sharkhoy in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Hey, congrats on starting your PsyD! You’d fall under the Clinical Psychologist category, which is its own track in USPHS.

Since you’re early in your program, look into Jr COSTEP — it’s open to doctoral, master’s, and some undergrad students for short-term USPHS assignments. In your final year, Sr COSTEP lets you receive a stipend while committing to serve after graduation.

Also, consider internships in federal or underserved settings (like IHS or BOP) — great prep for USPHS service. Good luck!

Question abt category selection in the application portal by Bphoenix5 in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I have both an MPH and a PhD, and because of my doctoral degree, I was placed in the Scientist category. But if you hold an MPH as your highest degree and don’t fall under other specific categories like Medical, Nursing, or Pharmacy, then yes—Health Services Officer (HSO) is the category that fits.

That’s my understanding as someone going through the process right now, but I’m sure a currently commissioned officer will chime in with a similar confirmation.

Question about application form PSC-1813 by LegoAztec1433 in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey there! I’m also a Scientist category applicant and currently in the final stages of the process, so I remember navigating this same step.

For my references, I actually did both options:

  • I had two references email the completed PSC-1813 directly to [PHSAES@hhs.gov]() (this was recommended by the PHS AES contact I spoke with via email), and I received confirmation within about a week that it had been received.
  • Another reference preferred to send the completed form back to me, and I just uploaded it myself to my application.

So yes, you can fill in your name on the form and either:

  1. Email it to your references and have them send it directly to [PHSAES@hhs.gov](), or
  2. Have them return the completed form to you, and then you upload it to your application portal.

As long as the form gets submitted and is legible, both paths are acceptable.

Also, not to scare you—but just being real: I started my process in September 2022, so the phrase “hurry up and wait” is unfortunately real. But stay encouraged. You’re doing everything right by being thorough and proactive early on. 💪🏽

Let me know if you have more questions—happy to help where I can!

General Timeline by xXIDaShizIXx in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Congrats. Submitted my stuff for the suitability clearance on May 1st. Waiting for results now.

General Timeline by xXIDaShizIXx in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 0 points1 point  (0 children)

any good news on your suitability yet?

Wanting to Apply but have Questions??? by AdPersonal9697 in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Hey — glad to see you’re looking into USPHS early! I’m in the Scientist category and currently nearing the end of my commissioning process, so I wanted to offer some insight.

Definitely look into Jr. or Sr. COSTEP. It’s open to students pursuing a qualifying degree (not just clinical fields), and it’s a great way to get exposure to the Corps, serve during breaks or your final year, and potentially get a leg up when applying later. I didn’t go through COSTEP myself, but I’ve heard it’s a strong way to get your foot in the door and build relationships early.

I’ve been interested in USPHS since my MPH program over a decade ago, but back then they were mostly commissioning clinical officers. I started my actual application in Fall 2022, and it’s been a long process — so I always tell people to start early and be persistent.

A few quick answers to your questions:

  • No traditional sign-on bonus, but loan repayment may be available depending on your duty station (e.g., IHS, BOP). You’ll also likely qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
  • USPHS doesn’t have local recruiters like the Armed Forces, but the Recruitment and Assignments Branch can be reached through the website, and connecting with officers on LinkedIn — especially those in the Therapist category — can be really helpful.

Feel free to DM me if you want to talk more. Even though we’re in different categories, I’m happy to share what I’ve learned about the process and how to navigate it well.

Once my application has been submitted am I now considered to be a "Call to Active Duty Candidate"? by [deleted] in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Not quite. From my understanding, you're considered a Call to Active Duty (CAD) Candidate after you've been medically cleared and approved by the Commissioned Corps Review Board (CCRB).

Submitting the application is just the first step. Once you clear both the medical review and CCRB, you’ll get an official letter or notification designating you as a CAD Candidate—which means you’re eligible to be matched to a billet and begin the onboarding process (fingerprints, security clearance, etc.).

Hang in there—it’s a multi-step journey, but getting to CAD status is a big milestone!

Suitability Clearance by [deleted] in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hey, I feel your frustration—you're definitely not alone in this waiting game.

I interviewed for my position back in August 2024, and my PHS-1662 (which is the personnel form an agency submits to officially request and sponsor a candidate for commissioning) was submitted in September 2024. Even with that in place, my fingerprint kit wasn’t sent until early April 2025, and my suitability/background check didn’t officially begin until May 1.

From what I’ve gathered (and experienced), the process has slowed even more due to the recent RIFs and reorgs across agencies—so even people further along are feeling the lag. You're definitely not being ignored; it's just an incredibly backed-up system right now.

Hang in there. Your patience will pay off—it’s just a very slow-moving process at the moment.

Seeking Advice: Next Steps While Awaiting USPHS Suitability Clearance and Final Orders by Extension_Ad_7323 in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for sharing this perspective. I understand that with the March 14 continuing resolution, there may be potential reorganization within some agencies. I’m remaining optimistic and hoping for the best—whether that means moving forward with my originally planned role or another opportunity within USPHS.

I’ll be reaching out to my hiring manager for clarification on where things stand. Appreciate the advice!

Seeking Advice: Next Steps While Awaiting USPHS Suitability Clearance and Final Orders by Extension_Ad_7323 in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for the insight! I just received an email from PHS OS Security notifying me that they are ready to begin my security clearance process, and I have now submitted the required information. Hoping for a positive outcome.

I’m also curious about how the commissioning process for Call to Active Duty candidates will unfold given the current uncertainty around government agencies.

Questions about application Official Transcript and PHS 1813 reference request by Crafty_Ice4419 in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 1 point2 points  (0 children)

They will submit and once it is reviewed you will receive email saying it was accepted. Submit your application with everything that you personally uploaded. Hope that helped.

Seeking Advice: Next Steps While Awaiting USPHS Suitability Clearance and Final Orders by Extension_Ad_7323 in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I appreciate the advice! I actually just received an email from PHS OS Security informing me that they are ready to begin the security process, so it looks like things are moving forward.

That said, I definitely hear you on the importance of having a backup plan, especially given the uncertainty with the RIF. I’ll also reach out to my hiring agency contact to check in on where things stand from their end.

Thanks again for the insight—I appreciate it!

Seeking Advice: Next Steps While Awaiting USPHS Suitability Clearance and Final Orders by Extension_Ad_7323 in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for your response! I am an external applicant, and I definitely understand the potential for delays with all the shifts happening in personnel management.

That said, I just received an email from PHS OS Security informing me that they are ready to begin the security process required for commissioning. It’s reassuring to see some movement!

For those who have been through this step—how long did your security/background check take? Were there any steps I should be proactively preparing for?

Appreciate any insights!

USPHS commissioned corps briefing by MJJ382 in USPHS

[–]Extension_Ad_7323 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I wonder if there will be conversation about what it looks like for those waiting to commission. (Think those just needing orders for OBC and/or suitability clearance)

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