Staffing disruptions

OIG Flags Scheduling Concerns in VA’s New Electronic Health Record

The Veterans Health Administration’s new electronic health record is experiencing significant scheduling system challenges.

The challenges have led to delays, inefficient workarounds and an increased risk of scheduling errors at smaller medical facilities, the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General said.

The OIG expressed concern that the problems could worsen as the EHR is rolled out to larger, more complex medical centers.

Specific issues include inadequate staffing levels to handle the new system’s demands, disrupted workflows and technical problems, such as the inability to automatically send appointment reminders.

The VHA has temporarily halted further EHR deployments. However, the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center is proceeding as a test case for implementation at large facilities.

To mitigate the impact at future sites, the OIG recommended the VA thoroughly assess staffing needs, develop clear workflow best practice and provide comprehensive training for staff prior to new deployments.