Healthcare Inspection Provider Privileging and Delayed Patient Care VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, Connecticut

OIG evaluated the validity of allegations regarding a service’s administrative practice at the VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven Campus, West Haven, CT. The complainant alleged that the service chief did not recently provide direct patient care, did not meet the requirements for physician re-privileging, and intentionally delayed patient care based on the assigned provider. OIG did not substantiate that the service chief did not provide recent direct patient care or meet the requirements for re-privileging; however, facility leadership is taking steps to clarify the requirements for documentation of clinical competence for privileging based on the OHI Combined Assessment Program Review of the VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, Connecticut dated February 14, 2011. OIG also did not substantiate Delayed patient care based on the assigned provider. The VISN and Facility Directors concurred with OIG findings. OIG made no recommendations.