Why I Love Working in Health Care in Virginia

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Rewarding, meaningful careers combined with affordable, fun lifestyles is exactly what health care professionals can expect to find in Virginia. The state is home to several reputable health care systems, like HCA Virginia Health System, Bon Secours Mercy Health, Inova and Sentara Healthcare, as well as small-to-medium size clinics and practices, giving those in the health care field plenty of opportunities when it comes to employment. Additionally, the state’s diverse outdoor offerings, from mountains to water trails, vibrant arts scenes, delicious food options and wealth of things to do allow them to fill their downtown to the brim with fun activities. Ahead, read about three health care professionals who love working and living in Virginia.

Dr. Davin Combs’ career path began with a GED diploma, included two tours in Iraq with the U.S. Army, and led him to the halls of Congress as a legislative aide working on issues relating to veterans. 

Because medicine had long been his dream, Combs then completed his undergraduate degree at The George Washington University before enrolling at Virginia Tech Carilion (VTC) School of Medicine in Roanoke in 2019. He now serves as chief resident in emergency medicine at Carilion Clinic.

“The whole mission of VTC really captured my interest,” Combs says. “It was very research focused, but also very service focused. I recognized it as an opportunity for a great training site.”

Though initially considering his wife’s home state of Texas for residency, the couple and their three sons wanted to stay in the community they had built in Roanoke.

“Roanoke is like a small town,” he says. “I get the whole experience of working at a large tertiary care center, but I am 12 minutes door-to-door from home to work. I spend a total of 25 minutes a day driving.”

Plus, Combs can do what he loves.

“I love emergency medicine,” he says. “To me, it’s the purest form of medicine that still exists. I’m able to meet patients where they are and provide the care they need at the time, taking care of everybody who comes into the hospital.”

When he completes his residency, Combs plans to stay on with Carilion as an attending physician and will pursue fellowship training in EMS. 

“Carilion really takes care of its people and prioritizes quality of life,” Combs says. “People stay here a long time for a reason. Demands on your time can make being a physician hard, but this place mitigates that, providing a fulfilling work environment and a really good quality of life.”

Martha Smith has been a nurse with Bon Secours Rappahannock General Hospital in Kilmarnock since 2014 and now serves as a behavioral health manager. 

“My journey in nursing began over 13 years ago when I realized my passion for helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges,” Smith says. “After gaining valuable experience in various health care settings, I chose to specialize in behavioral health. Rappahannock General attracted me with its commitment to patient-centered care and its supportive community atmosphere, which aligns with my own values in health care.”

Smith says her job gives her the ability to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives and work with a dedicated team of professionals who share the same passion for mental health care.

“Watching patients’ progress and celebrating their achievements is truly rewarding,” she says.

Rappahannock General’s collaborative environment, strong leadership and focus on continuous improvement make it a great place to work. The hospital emphasizes professional development and provides opportunities for growth, which benefits both staff and the patients they serve.

“Our ongoing and unwavering dedication to this community as a whole, along with our specific focus on behavioral health, serves as a powerful testament to our mission,” she says. “We are committed to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for all members of our community over the long term. 

Outside of work, Smith enjoys spending time with her family. She also loves the beautiful outdoors and engaging in community activities that promote wellness and mental health awareness.

For other health care professionals considering a move here, Smith says, “The local community is warm and welcoming, and the professional environment at Rappahannock General is both challenging and rewarding. It offers a blend of small-town charm with access to comprehensive health care resources.”

Courtney Grant has been a nurse for 11 years, nine of which have been at LewisGale Hospital Pulaski. After completing her bachelor’s degree in health promotion, she followed her heart to pursue nursing, graduating from Wytheville Community College’s program in 2014. After a brief stint in skilled nursing care out of state, she returned to southwest Virginia.

“I was fortunate to find an ICU job at LewisGale Hospital Pulaski,” Grant says. 

“I find great satisfaction in managing ventilators and critical medications with confidence, knowing I’m contributing to a patient’s recovery,” says Grant, a progressive care certified nurse. “It’s particularly rewarding when we can connect with family members and offer support during challenging times.”

Grant appreciates providing guidance to new nursing graduates.

“My advice is don’t expect to learn it all in one day – or ever – and never be afraid to ask questions,” she says.

LewisGale Hospital Pulaski’s small size generates a family-like environment. In fact, Grant’s husband works there, too.

“I enjoy knowing the names of everyone in the hallway,” she says. “A smaller hospital also lends to accountability across departments. You really know the people. They aren’t just a voice on the other end of the phone.” 

With two young children and a third on the way, Grant says she appreciates the career flexibility nursing offers.

“I recently stepped down as a full-time clinical nurse coordinator in the ICU to spend more time with my children,” she says. “Because of my career path in nursing, I will continue to work as an ICU nurse, just putting in fewer hours. That not only benefits me and my family during this chapter in our lives, but also LewisGale Hospital Pulaski.”

This article is sponsored by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership.