All Reports

Combined Assessment Program Review of the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, North Chicago, Illinois
|
15-00594-389

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that facility managers ensure that credentialing and privileging folders do not contain information that is not allowed and monitor compliance.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that facility managers ensure patient care areas are clean and monitor compliance.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that facility managers ensure nurse call systems with portable telephones have alarms that are audible and monitor compliance.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/5/2016
We recommended that the facility’s Emergency Operations Plan include how the facility manages patient scheduling.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/12/2016
We recommended that facility managers ensure monthly medication storage area inspections are completed on the medical/surgical acute care unit and monitor compliance.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/12/2016
We recommended that facility managers consistently implement corrective actions for issues identified during monthly medication storage area inspections and monitor the changes until issues are fully resolved.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/5/2016
We recommended that facility managers ensure designated employees receive initial automated dispensing machine training and competency assessment and monitor compliance.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/5/2016
We recommended that requestors consistently select the proper consult title and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/5/2016
We recommended that facility managers ensure initial clinician emergency airway management competency assessment includes documentation of all required elements.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 5/5/2016
We recommended that facility managers ensure clinician reassessment for continued emergency airway management competency is completed at the time of renewal of privileges and monitor compliance.
Healthcare Inspection – Alleged Lapse in Timeliness of Care, West Palm Beach VA Medical Center, West Palm Beach, Florida
|
15-00191-406

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/2/2016
We recommended that the Facility Director implement procedures to ensure that unstable patients being transported from one area to another in the facility be monitored safely and accompanied by appropriate personnel.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/2/2016
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that Emergency Department and Interventional Radiology nursing staff receive education on handoff communication requirements.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 11/5/2015
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that the facility policy for the handoff communication process be reviewed for inclusion of documentation of handoff communication.
Review of Alleged Delays in Care Caused by Patient-Centered Community Care (PC3) Issues
|
14-04116-408

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/9/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health establish timeliness criteria for submitting authorizations to the Patient-Centered Community Care contractors.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/9/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health monitor timeliness of submitting authorizations to Patient-Centered Community Care contractors and take actions to improve timeliness when standards are not met.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/9/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health evaluate the Patient-Centered Community Care contractor networks to ensure they are sufficient to meet contract performance requirements.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/16/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health revise contract terms to eliminate the option of scheduling appointments before communicating with the veteran.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/9/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health implement a control to ensure Patient-Centered Community Care contractors return authorizations if they cannot schedule an appointment within 5 business days of receipt of the authorization.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/9/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health implement a control to ensure Patient-Centered Community Care contractors return authorizations when they cannot arrange for an appointment to take place within 30 days of the appointment creation date.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/9/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health implement a control to ensure Patient-Centered Community Care contractors comply with requirements to notify Veterans Health Administration within 14 days of a missed appointment.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/9/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health implement a control to ensure Patient-Centered Community Care contractors comply with requirements to return medical documentation within 14 days of the appointment's occurrence.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/9/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health implement a mechanism to monitor all authorizations submitted to the Patient-Centered Community Care contractors.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/9/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health revise the Patient-Centered Community Care dashboard to report completed authorizations and the percentage of total authorizations by the specific contractors performing these services.
Healthcare Inspection – Alleged Mental Health Access and Treatment Deficiencies, Brunswick Community Outpatient Clinic, Brunswick, Georgia
|
15-01116-390

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/8/2016
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that clinical staff assign surrogates to manage secure messages as required by Veterans Integrated Service Network 7 policy.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/20/2016
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that staff comply with Veterans Health Administration policy for scheduling outpatient follow-up appointments, that staff utilize the Recall/Reminder Software application when appropriate, and that compliance be monitored.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/12/2016
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that community based outpatient clinic staff initiate appropriate follow-up action when a patient is ano show or fails to schedule a follow-up appointment.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/12/2016
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that services outlined in the treatment plan are provided and that compliance be monitored.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/8/2016
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure processes are in place to ensure continuity of the mental health treatment plan in the event of staff departure and/or reassignment and to discuss proposed changes to treatment plans with patients.
Review of Alleged Mismanagement of Medical Supplies at the VA Medical Center, East Orange, New Jersey
|
15-01927-375

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 4/28/2016
We recommended the Interim Director of Veterans Integrated Service Network 3 ensure the VA New Jersey Health Care System purchases and maintains medical supplies at normal stock levels.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/7/2015
We recommended the Interim Director of Veterans Integrated Service Network 3 ensure the VA New Jersey Health Care System conducts a 100 percent wall-to-wall inventory of all Medical Supply Distribution Section inventory storage areas and document results.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/7/2016
We recommended the Interim Director of Veterans Integrated Service Network 3 ensure the VA New Jersey Health Care System uses the results of the wall-to-wall inventory to assess the accuracy of the Integrated Funds Distribution, Control Point Activity, Accounting and Procurement system, and makes adjustments as deemed appropriate.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 4/28/2016
We recommended the Interim Director of Veterans Integrated Service Network 3 ensure the VA New Jersey Health Care System obtains and mandates the use of one model of barcode scanner to track and maintain medical supply inventory.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 4/28/2016
We recommended the Interim Director of Veterans Integrated Service Network 3 ensure the VA New Jersey Health Care System implements measures to determine reasons discrepancies are occurring in inventories and takes appropriate corrective action before technicians manually adjust the Integrated Funds Distribution, Control Point Activity, Accounting and Procurement system.
Total Monetary Impact of All Recommendations
Open: $ 0.00
Closed: $ 48,100.00
Audit of VHA's Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Case Management Oversight
|
14-01991-387

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health establish a definitive legal position on Grant and Per Diem Program eligibility.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health revise policies, if necessary, when a definitive legal position is provided on Grant and Per Diem Program eligibility.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health implement controls to ensure grant applications comply with the definitive legal position on Grant and Per Diem Program eligibility.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health assess all medication security controls over controlled and non-controlled substances and conduct additional inspections at funded grantee facilities.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health ensure individually locked medications are safely secured in non-portable storage containers.
Combined Assessment Program Review of the North Florida/South GeorgiaVeterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida
|
15-00601-376

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/15/2015
We recommended that facility managers ensure that licensed independent practitioners who perform emergency airway management have the appropriate privileges granted to match their skills and training.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/2/2016
We recommended that the facility reduce credentialing and privileging folders to the two-part format.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/15/2015
We recommended that the Operating Room Committee include the Chief of Staff as a member and that committee minutes reflect review of National Surgical Office reports.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/2/2016
We recommended that the facility establish a committee to provide oversight of the safe patient handling program.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/15/2015
We recommended that Infection Control Committee meeting minutes consistently reflect discussion of all identified high-risk areas.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/15/2015
We recommended that facility managers ensure all buildings designated for health care occupancy at the Lake City campus have fire drills conducted once per shift per quarter and monitor compliance.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/16/2015
We recommended that facility managers ensure negative air pressure systems in the Gainesville campus surgical intensive care unit are functional and monitor compliance.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/15/2015
We recommended that facility managers ensure Gainesville campus locked mental health unit stationary panic alarm testing includes documentation of VA Police response time and ensure testing of portable panic alarms and monitor compliance.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/15/2015
We recommended that facility managers ensure designated employees complete competency assessment on the use of emergency evacuation devices and monitor compliance.
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/14/2016
We recommended that engineering managers ensure all Gainesville campus construction workers wear VA-issued identification badges and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 11
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/15/2015
We recommended that facility managers ensure that oral syringes are available for liquid medications in all units/areas at the Lake City and Gainesville campuses and that they are stored separately from parenteral syringes to minimize the risk of wrong-route medication errors.
No. 12
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/15/2015
We recommended that employees screen inpatients to determine whether they want to have a discussion about advance directives and document the screening and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 13
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/15/2015
We recommended that the facility revise the emergency airway management policy to include a plan for managing a difficult airway.
No. 14
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/25/2015
We recommended that the facility ensure initial clinician emergency airway management competency assessment includes evidence of a completed written test and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 15
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/15/2015
We recommended that the facility report provider specific emergency airway management data to the Operative and Invasive Procedures Committee.
Healthcare Inspection – Quality and Coordination of Care Concerns at Two Veterans Integrated Service Network 15 Facilities
|
14-04547-401

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health take steps to prevent prescriptions from being dispensed to deceased veterans.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Kansas City VA Medical Center Director strengthen processes for interfacility coordination of care and communication and monitor compliance.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Kansas City VA Medical Center Director ensure that processes be strengthened so medication reconciliation is consistently completed and monitor compliance.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Kansas City VA Medical Center Director conduct peer reviews of this patient’s care, to include the evaluation and treatment of recurrent falls and the coordination of care.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital Director strengthen processes for interfacility coordination of care and communication and monitor compliance.
Combined Assessment Program Summary Report - Evaluation of Selected Requirements in Veterans Health Administration Community Living Centers
|
15-01721-382

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/14/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that for residents who may be candidates for restorative nursing services, the interdisciplinary team documents the reason the resident is not receiving the services or other activities to promote functional status.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/14/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that for residents receiving or supposed to receive restorative nursing services, the interdisciplinary team documents goals in their care plans.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/11/2017
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that nursing employees provide and document restorative nursing services in accordance with the care plan, and if they do not provide the services, they document the reason.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 10/31/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that employees complete required restorative summary notes and that the Associate Chief Nurse or designee monitors compliance.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/14/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that for residents not progressing toward restorative goals, the interdisciplinary team reassesses the resident care plan and/or adjusts goals and interventions as necessary.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/14/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation therapists discharging residents from therapy document hand-off communication with nursing employees to ensure interventions continue or are discontinued, as applicable.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/14/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that facility managers provide and document nursing employee training on range of motion and transfers.
Healthcare Inspection – Evaluation of a Patient’s Care and Disclosure of Protected Information, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
|
15-02276-391

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/5/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health evaluate options that would allow managers to identify individuals who access non-sensitive patient electronic health records.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that Mental Health Assessment Team appointments are scheduled within required timeframes, that patients are properly notified of those appointments, and that appropriate follow-up is documented when patients miss Mental Health Assessment Team appointments.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing program contacts or home visits occur as outlined in the patient's treatment plan.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that patient record flags identifying patients at risk for suicide are placed promptly and that required high-risk protocols, including weekly contacts, are implemented and documented accordingly.
Community Based Outpatient Clinics Summary Report ─ Evaluation of Medication Oversight and Education at Community Based Outpatient Clinics and Other Outpatient Clinics
|
15-01297-368

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/29/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility senior managers, ensure that clinicians perform and document medication reconciliation at each outpatient episode of care when a new medication is prescribed.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/29/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility senior managers, ensure that clinicians consistently provide and document patient education for new outpatient medications.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/29/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility senior managers, ensure that clinicians consistently assess and document outpatients' understanding of medication education.
Healthcare Inspection – Care of an Urgent Care Clinic Patient, Tomah VA Medical Center, Tomah, Wisconsin
|
15-02456-396

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/20/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health review current acute stroke treatment policies, and assess the use of telehealth evaluation and more aggressive local treatment in patients presenting to rural and/or low complexity VHA facilities with signs and symptoms of an acute stroke.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/20/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health review processes to improve the ability to identify unauthorized access to VA medical records.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/20/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health evaluate the complex rules related to reimbursement for a veteran’s emergency care at non-VA facilities, and determine if changes in policy or law would make it more likely that veterans would make decisions on where to seek emergency care based upon medical circumstances, rather than fear of adverse financial impact.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that patients and their families are educated about the services the UCC is equipped to provide.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that employees who are involved in assessing and treating stroke patients receive the web-based acute ischemic stroke training required by the facility and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/4/2016
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that transfer agreements are established as required.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that the Facility Director review and evaluate computerized tomography scanner routine maintenance schedules to determine if routine maintenance can be conducted during periods of traditionally low utilization.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure Urgent Care Clinic processes are strengthened to reduce door-to-triage timeliness.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that appropriate staff receive Emergency Department Integration Software training.
Healthcare Inspection – Mismanagement of Mental Health Consults and Other Access to Care Concerns, VA Maine Healthcare System, Augusta, ME
|
14-05158-377

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 11/18/2015
We recommended the Facility Director remove the language in the Computerized Patient Record System outpatient psychological testing consult that may be interpreted as instructing providers not to enter a consult.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 4/20/2017
We recommended the Facility Director reevaluate and make the appropriate changes to the methods for referring patients for mental health care, including the extent to which the consult package is being used appropriately.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 4/20/2017
We recommended the Facility Director ensure that mental health consults are reviewed and closed in accordance with Veterans Health Administration policy.
No. 4
Not Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 4/20/2017
We recommended the Facility Director ensure that Veterans Health Administration appointment scheduling guidance is followed and that schedulers utilize the electronic waiting list and give priority to service connected veterans, as appropriate.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/2/2016
We recommended the Facility Director review all existing mental health wait lists to identify patients who may be at risk because of a delay in the delivery of mental health care and provide the appropriate care.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/3/2016
We recommended the Facility Director expand access to mental health services, particularly required evidence-based psychotherapy and intensive case management services.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/2/2016
We recommended the Facility Director ensure that mental health staff is available in the Emergency Department as required by Veteran Health Administration and local policy to avoid potential delays in admission to the inpatient psychiatry unit.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/2/2016
We recommended the Facility Director review guidance provided to staff about meeting performance measures and confer with the Office of Human Resources and the Office of General Counsel to determine the appropriate administrative action to take, if any.
Review of Alleged Improper Advances of VHA Appropriated Funds to the U.S. Government Printing Office
|
14-00730-206

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Acquisitions, Logistics, and Construction (OALC)
Closure Date: 12/1/2015
We recommended Deputy Assistant Secretary for Acquisition and Logistics take steps to consult with the Office of General Counsel to remedy the inappropriate expenditure of approximately $2.3 million of expired funds, determine whether VA should de-obligate any outstanding balances, and evaluate the need to return Supply Fund service fees of approximately $5.6 million.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Acquisitions, Logistics, and Construction (OALC)
Closure Date: 12/1/2015
We recommended Deputy Assistant Secretary for Acquisition and Logistics implement a corrective action plan to ensure that fiscal controls are enforced to avoid future misuse of appropriated funds, including inappropriate use of the VA Supply Fund, and the parking of funds.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Office of Management (OM)
Closure Date: 2/18/2016
We recommended the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Finance review the fiscal controls in the Financial Management System to ensure data integrity and an audit trail that reflects the occurrence and source of any accounting record changes.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/22/2017
We recommended the Deputy Under Secretary for Health for Operations and Management confer with the Office of Human Resources and the Office of General Counsel to determine the appropriate administrative action to take, if any, against Chief Business Office officials for directing the misuse of approximately $43.1 million of fiscal year 2011 appropriated funds.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Acquisitions, Logistics, and Construction (OALC)
Closure Date: 12/1/2015
We recommended the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction confer with the Office of Human Resources and the VA Office of General Counsel to determine the appropriate administrative action to take, if any, against Supply Fund management for circumventing controls over the management of funds.
Combined Assessment Program Summary Report - Evaluation of Medication Oversight and Education in Veterans Health Administration Facilities
|
15-00359-374

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/6/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility senior managers, ensure that clinicians adjust fluoroquinolone doses and/or frequencies consistent with manufacturers' recommendations when patients' estimated glomerular filtration rate values are below targeted thresholds.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 12/4/2015
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility senior managers, ensure that clinicians providing medication education document the accommodations made to address patients¿ identified learning barriers.
Healthcare Inspection – Quality of Care and Access to Care Concerns, Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center, Muskogee, OK
|
14-04573-378

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Veterans Integrated Service Network Director ensure that the Facility Director evaluate the care of the cases discussed in this report with Regional Counsel for possible disclosure(s) to the patient(s) and/or surviving family members.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Veterans Integrated Service Network Director require the Facility Director to conduct peer reviews of the cases identified in this report and take appropriate action to evaluate clinical competence of the providers involved in these cases based on the results of those reviews and this report.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Veterans Integrated Service Network Director send a team to evaluate the facility’s Dental Service and oversee the implementation of any recommendations for improvement in scheduling and the general provision of dental care at the facility made by that team.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Veterans Integrated Service Network Director ensure that the Facility Director provide appropriate and timely neurosurgical consultation services to patients receiving care at the facility consistent with Veterans Health Administration Directive 2008-056, VHA Consult Policy, September 16, 2008.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that all documents that patients and non-VA providers receive regarding maternity/obstetric care and services are reviewed and revised to eliminate ambiguous language.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Facility Director ensure that providers document all clinically pertinent telephone conversations concerning patient care.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that Veterans Integrated Service Network and the Facility Director ensure adequate parking space requirements to strengthen a safe work environment, patient satisfaction, and provide optimal safety to patients, visitors, and staff.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended that the Veterans Integrated Service Network and the Facility Director ensure that Ernest Childers VA Outpatient Clinic access and parking is adequate and safe for patients, visitors, and employees.
Healthcare Inspection – Medication Management Concerns, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Texas
|
15-00425-380

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 10/20/2015
We recommended that the System Director ensure that processes be developed to improve storage conditions of compounded sterile products on applicable patient units in an effort to reduce unnecessary waste.
Review of Second Instance of Employee Data Manipulation at the Houston VA Regional Office
|
15-02354-220

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/15/2015
We recommended the Houston VA Regional Office Director take immediate action to fully review and correct, as appropriate, all actions the employee took to clear or cancel controls for claims.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/15/2015
We recommended the Houston VA Regional Office Director confer with Regional Counsel to determine the appropriate administrative action to take, if any, against this employee.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/15/2015
We recommended the Houston VA Regional Office Director implement a plan to routinely monitor system controls for pending claims, to prevent further manipulation attempts and ensure staff do not prematurely change or remove controls.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/15/2015
We recommended the Houston VA Regional Office Director submit the 13 remaining and previously unavailable claims the employee cancelled in FY 2013 to OIG for review.
Displaying 2001 - 2020 of 4256