Healthcare Inspection - Alleged Quality of Care and Staffing Issues VA Western New York Healthcare System, Buffalo, New York

OIG assessed the merit of allegations concerning quality of care and physician staffing in the Emergency Department (ED) of the VA Western New York Healthcare System (facility), Buffalo, NY. OIG substantiated the allegation that two patients did not receive adequate evaluation and management in the ED. The same physician evaluated both patients and both patients returned to the ED and required admission. OIG did not substantiate quality of care concerns for a third patient. Facility managers had identified quality of care concerns with this physician yet they had not taken appropriate corrective actions in response to these concerns. OIG substantiated the allegation that the ED was understaffed and that physicians often worked excessive clinical hours. OIG also substantiated that the facility was on diversion overnight while two physicians were staffing the ED and inpatient beds were available. However, we did not identify any patients who were diverted to local hospitals. OIG made four recommendations to improve quality of patient care and staffing in the ED, as well as to follow up on quality of care concerns raised in specific cases. The VISN and Interim Facility Directors agreed with the findings and recommendations and provided acceptable action plans.