Healthcare Inspection Electronic Waiting List Management for Mental Health Clinics Atlanta VA Medical Center Atlanta, Georgia

OIG conducted an evaluation regarding inadequate management of the electronic waiting list (EWL) for several mental health clinics at the Atlanta VA Medical Center, Atlanta, GA. OIG substantiated that several MH clinics had significantly high numbers of patients on their EWLs over a period of months in fiscal year (FY) 2010, and OIG substantiated that facility managers were aware of the EWLs but were slow in taking actions to address the condition. While the facility has since provided resources to eliminate the MH EWLs, ongoing actions will be needed to ensure the condition does not recur. OIG substantiated that FY 2010 funds were inappropriately used to pay a contractor’s FY 2009 expenses and that there were delays in payments to the contractor. OIG recommended that the Medical Center Director ensure ongoing actions are taken to minimize and/or alleviate MH EWLs and that responsible staff follow fiscal guidelines. The Acting Veterans Integrated Service Network Director, who is also the Medical Center Director, agreed with the findings and recommendations and provided acceptable action plans. OIG will follow up on the planned actions until they are completed.