All Reports

Date Issued
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Report Number
15-00359-374

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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.
Date Issued
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Report Number
15-00911-362

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/27/2017
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health ensure that gastroenterology, pathology, nuclear medicine, and radiation oncology program offices define specialty specific criteria or monitors for use in Focused and Ongoing Professional Practice Evaluations and require consistent application across the Veterans Health Administration and that program offices monitor compliance.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/27/2017
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health require a process to obtain input for evaluating professional practice from another physician in the same specialty when a physician is the only one of any specialty at a facility and require each Veterans Integrated Service Network to monitor compliance.
Date Issued
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Report Number
14-01883-371

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
Closure Date: 9/25/2018
We recommended the Under Secretary for Benefits implement a plan to ensure field examination workload is completed in compliance with timeliness standards.
No. 2
Not Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'
to Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
Closure Date: 4/4/2018
We recommended the Under Secretary for Benefits use the percentage of untimely field examinations in addition to the average days pending performance measure to better evaluate completion of field examinations.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
Closure Date: 12/20/2017
We recommended the Under Secretary for Benefits require hub managers to use Beneficiary and Fiduciary Field System reports to identify and correct unscheduled field examinations at least once per quarter.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
Closure Date: 10/20/2015
We recommended the Under Secretary for Benefits implement a plan to ensure the Beneficiary and Fiduciary Field System’s functionality is enhanced to require a date for scheduled field examinations be entered before exiting the system.
Date Issued
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Report Number
14-01820-355

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology fully develop policy to address Federal requirements and implement an agency-wide risk management governance structure, along with mechanisms to identify, monitor, and manage risks across the enterprise. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement mechanisms to ensure sufficient supporting documentation is captured in the central Governance Risk and Compliance tool to justify closure of Plans of Action and Milestones. (This is a modified repeat recommendation from last year.)
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement clear roles, responsibilities, and accountability for developing, maintaining, completing, and reporting Plans of Action and Milestones. (This is a modified repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement mechanisms to ensure Plans of Action and Milestones are updated to accurately reflect current status information. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology develop mechanisms to ensure system security plans reflect current operational environments, including accurate system interconnections, boundary, and ownership information. (This is a modified repeat recommendation from last year.)
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement improved processes for updating key security documents such as risk assessments, Privacy Impact Assessments, and security control assessments on an annual basis and ensure all required information accurately reflects the current environment. (This is a modified repeat recommendation from last year.)
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement mechanisms to enforce VA password policies and standards on all operating systems, databases, applications, and network devices. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement periodic access reviews to minimize access by system users with incompatible roles, permissions in excess of required functional responsibilities, and unauthorized accounts. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology enable system audit logs and conduct centralized reviews of security violations on mission-critical systems. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 10
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement two-factor authentication for remote access throughout the agency. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 11
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement mechanisms to ensure all remote access computers have updated security patches and antivirus definitions prior to connecting to VA information systems. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 12
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement more effective automated mechanisms to continuously identify and remediate security deficiencies on VA¿s network infrastructure, database platforms, and Web application servers. (This is a modified repeat recommendation from last year.)
No. 13
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement a more effective patch and vulnerability management program to address security deficiencies identified during our assessments of VA¿s Web applications, database platforms, network infrastructure, and work stations. (This is a modified repeat recommendation from last year.)
No. 14
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement improved processes for monitoring standard security configuration baselines for all VA operating systems, databases, applications, and network devices. (This is a modified repeat recommendation from last year.)
No. 15
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement improved network access controls to ensure medical devices and tenant networks are appropriately segregated from general networks and mission-critical systems. (This is a new recommendation)
No. 16
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology consolidate the security responsibilities for tenant networks present under a common control for each site and ensure vulnerabilities are remediated in a timely manner. (This is a new recommendation)
No. 17
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement procedures to enforce a standardized system development and change control framework that integrates information security throughout the life cycle of each system. (This is a modified repeat recommendation from last year.)
No. 18
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement processes to ensure information system contingency plans are updated with the required information. (This is a modified repeat recommendation from last year.)
No. 19
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology develop and implement a process for ensuring the encryption of backup data prior to transferring the data offsite for storage. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 20
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement more effective agency-wide incident response procedures to ensure timely resolution of computer security incidents in accordance with VA set standards. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 21
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology identify all external network interconnections and implement improved processes for monitoring VA networks, systems, and exchanges for unauthorized activity. (This is a modified repeat recommendation from last year.)
No. 22
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement and monitor incident response metrics to assist in tracking and remediating all cybersecurity events. (This is a new recommendation)
No. 23
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology develop a listing of approved software and implement continuous monitoring processes to identify and prevent the use of unauthorized application software, hardware, and system configurations on its networks. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 24
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology develop a comprehensive software inventory process to identify major and minor software applications used to support VA programs and operations. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 25
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement procedures for overseeing contractor-managed, cloud-based systems and ensuring information security controls adequately protect VA sensitive systems and data. (This is a modified repeat recommendation from last year.)
No. 26
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement mechanisms for updating the Federal Information Security Management Act systems inventory, including contractor-managed systems and interfaces, and annually review the systems inventory for accuracy. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 27
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology implement mechanisms to ensure all users with VA network access participate in and complete required VA-sponsored security awareness training. (This is a repeat recommendation from prior years.)
No. 28
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Executive in Charge for Information and Technology develop guidance and procedures to integrate information security costs into the capital planning process while ensuring traceability of Plans of Action and Milestones remediation costs to appropriate capital planning budget documents.
No. 29
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology develop mechanisms to ensure risk assessments accurately reflect the current control environment, compensating controls, and the characteristics of the relevant VA facilities.
No. 30
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology update all applicable position descriptions to better describe position sensitivity levels, and improve documentation of employee/contractor personnel records of ¿Rules of Behavior¿ and annual privacy training certifications.
No. 31
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology ensure appropriate levels of background investigations be completed for all applicable VA employees and contractors in a timely manner, implement processes to monitor and ensure timely reinvestigations on all applicable employees and contractors, and monitor the status of the requested investigations.
No. 32
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology reduce wireless security vulnerabilities by ensuring sites have up-to-date mechanisms to protect against interception of wireless signals and unauthorized access to the network, and ensure the wireless network is segmented from the general network.
No. 33
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/15/2016
We recommended the Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology identify and deploy solutions to encrypt sensitive data and resolve clear text protocol vulnerabilities.
Date Issued
|
Report Number
14-03380-356

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health ensure implementation of the revised sampling plan for the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs to address sample outliers and adjust the program¿s reduction target to a reasonably achievable level, if necessary.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
Closure Date: 3/16/2016
We recommended the Under Secretary for Benefits monitor the results of the Veterans Benefits Administration¿s revised testing plans for the Compensation, Pension, Montgomery G.I. Bill, and Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment programs and adjust the reduction targets to reasonably achievable levels, if necessary.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
Closure Date: 3/16/2016
We recommended the Under Secretary for Benefits implement revised testing plans for the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill and its other reported Education programs that ensure valid and auditable estimates of improper payments.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Office of Management (OM)
Closure Date: 1/27/2016
We recommended that the Acting Assistant Secretary for Management improve the risk assessment guidance and instructions to include an assessment of risk associated with contracting activities.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Office of Management (OM)
Closure Date: 2/1/2017
We recommended that the Acting Assistant Secretary for Management perform risk assessments for programs with a high concentration of vendor payments using revised procedures that include contracting risk.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
Closure Date: 2/8/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Benefits ensure thorough testing of sample items used to estimate improper payments for the Compensation program.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
Closure Date: 10/9/2015
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Benefits consult with the Office of Management and Budget regarding the potential designation of the Compensation program as a high-priority program.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
Closure Date: 3/16/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Benefits use the annual Department of Defense drill pay matching file to identify improper drill pay-related payments in its Compensation and Pension program samples to ensure accurate and auditable reporting.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/27/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health improve test procedures for the Non-VA Medical Care and Purchased Long Term Services and Support programs by verifying the existence of valid contracts that support payments for these programs.
Date Issued
|
Report Number
14-02916-336

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/9/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health assign an accountable senior executive to prepare and document revised Patient-Centered Community Care price analyses and determine if VA will realize any cost savings during the future option years of the contracts.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/9/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health develop an action plan to address low PC3 contract utilization rates.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Acquisitions, Logistics, and Construction (OALC)
Closure Date: 9/9/2015
We recommended the Executive Director, Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction ensure all required contract documents are maintained in the official Patient-Centered Community Care contract files in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation and hold the contracting officer accountable for ensuring complete and accurate information is maintained in the Electronic Contract Management System.
Date Issued
|
Report Number
14-00378-208

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/8/2015
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Networks and facility senior managers, ensure that clinical managers complete improvement actions related to peer review and report the completion to the Peer Review Committee and that the Peer Review Committee submits quarterly reports to the Medical Executive Committee.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/8/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Networks and facility senior managers, ensure that the Medical Executive Committee documents approval when telemedicine services are received or provided.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/8/2015
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Networks and facility senior managers, ensure that clinical managers reassess observation criteria and/or utilization when the conversion rate from observation to admission was greater than the allowed percent.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/8/2015
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Networks and facility senior managers, ensure that clinicians complete reviews of inpatients’ continuing stays.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/8/2015
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Networks and facility senior managers, re-emphasize the requirement for an interdisciplinary committee to review individual resuscitation episodes and for facilities to collect resuscitation data.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 2/8/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Networks and facility senior managers, ensure that transfusion committees meet at least quarterly; include clinical representation from Medicine, Surgical, and Anesthesia Services; and review all required elements.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/8/2015
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Networks and facility senior managers, re-emphasize the requirements for Surgical Work Groups to meet monthly, include the Chief of Staff as a member, monitor surgical performance improvement activities, and review National Surgery Office reports.
Date Issued
|
Report Number
15-01809-163

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/8/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility senior managers, ensure that clinicians provide and document discharge instructions for all identified needs and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/8/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility senior managers, ensure that clinicians reassess patients¿ learning needs prior to providing important instructions, including discharge instructions, and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/8/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility senior managers, ensure that clinicians reconcile conflicting needs and instructions before discharging patients and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 8/8/2016
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility senior managers, ensure that patients receive ordered post-discharge referrals and that facility managers monitor compliance.
Date Issued
|
Report Number
14-02383-175

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP)
Closure Date: 6/8/2016
We recommended the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Human Resources Management ensure that all final selectees for Testing Designated Positions complete pre-employment drug testing prior to appointment.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP)
Closure Date: 6/8/2016
We recommended the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Human Resources Management collect data that would ensure accountability that all employees selected for random drug testing are tested.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP)
Closure Date: 8/9/2017
We recommended the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Human Resources Management develop procedures to ensure the Drug Testing coding of employees in Testing Designated Positions is accurate and complete in the Personnel and Accounting Integrated Data system.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP)
Closure Date: 1/25/2016
We recommended the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Human Resources Management coordinate with the Under Secretary for Health to implement procedures to ensure Custody and Control forms are accurately completed.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP)
Closure Date: 6/8/2016
We recommended the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Human Resources Management implement processes to adequately monitor local compliance with VA's Drug-Free Workplace Program requirements.
Date Issued
|
Report Number
13-01530-137

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/24/2015
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health implement periodic training for non-VA medical care staff to ensure proper determination and use of payment and additional documentation criteria.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 1/11/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health modify Chief Business Office reviews to include a systematic review of emergency transportation claims.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/24/2015
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health instruct the eight sampled VA medical facilities to initiate recovery of overpayments and reimbursement of underpayments identified in our audit.
Total Monetary Impact of All Recommendations
Open: $ 0.00
Closed: $ 56,200,000.00
Date Issued
|
Report Number
14-00730-126

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/30/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health establish oversight mechanisms to ensure Veterans Health Administration uses medical support and compliance funds in accordance with appropriation laws.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 9/13/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health seek the return of all medical support and compliance funds used to develop and support the Health Care Claims Processing System.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/30/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health deobligate all medical support and compliance funds that remain obligated toward the development of the Health Care Claims Processing System.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/30/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health obtain the appropriate funding to support the development of the Health Care Claims Processing System, if additional system development requirements are unfunded.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 6/21/2016
We recommended the Interim Under Secretary for Health confer with the Office of Human Resources and the Office of General Counsel to determine if appropriate administrative action should be taken against any senior officials in the Deputy Chief Business Office for Purchased Care's supervisory chain of command, and ensure that action is taken.
Date Issued
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Report Number
14-05132-90

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/10/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that facility policy addresses outpatient pressure ulcer prevention and treatment.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/10/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that facilities establish pressure ulcer committees with appropriate professional representation.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/10/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that facilities' pressure ulcer programs define requirements for employee training regarding pressure ulcer risk assessment, skin assessment and management, and documentation of skin assessment findings and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/10/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that clinicians revise pressure ulcer prevention plans when patients' risk levels change and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/7/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that clinicians provide and document patient/caregiver pressure ulcer education and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/10/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that clinicians provide and document skin inspections and Braden scales daily during hospitalization, including the day of discharge, and that facility managers monitor compliance.
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/10/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that facilities establish processes to monitor consistency in documentation of pressure ulcer stage, location, date acquired, and risk scale score and take appropriate actions to address inconsistencies.
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 7/7/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that clinicians document wound care follow-up plans for patients discharged with unhealed pressure ulcers and that the facility provides needed supplies.
No. 9
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 3/10/2016
We recommended that the Under Secretary for Health, in conjunction with Veterans Integrated Service Network and facility leaders, ensure that employees secure medications stored in patients' rooms.
Date Issued
|
Report Number
13-03324-85

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/31/2017
We recommended the Executive in Charge and Chief Information Officer, Office of Information and Technology, establish procedures to ensure the Office of Product Development completes all required Planning Reviews (repeat recommendation from the 2011 VA Office of Inspector General audit report).
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 9/18/2017
We recommended the Executive in Charge and Chief Information Officer, Office of Information and Technology, ensure personnel performing Compliance Reviews assess the accuracy and reasonableness of cost information reported on the Project Management Accountability System Dashboard (repeat recommendation from the 2011 VA Office of Inspector General audit report).
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/20/2018
We recommended the Executive in Charge and Chief Information Officer, Office of Information and Technology, ensure hiring actions are completed by acquiring the vacant Federal employee positions in the Project Management Accountability System Business Office (repeat recommendation from the 2011 VA Office of Inspector General audit report).
No. 4
Not Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 1/22/2015
We recommended the Executive in Charge and Chief Information Officer, Office of Information and Technology, not exercise future options of the task order used to augment Project Management Accountability System Business Office staffing once hiring actions have been completed.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 3/31/2017
We recommended the Executive in Charge and Chief Information Officer, Office of Information and Technology, complete modification of the Project Management Accountability System Dashboard so that it maintains a complete audit trail of baseline data by including planned, revised, and actual figures for project life-cycle and increment costs (repeat recommendation from the 2011 VA Office of Inspector General audit report).
No. 6
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 9/18/2017
We recommended the Executive in Charge and Chief Information Officer, Office of Information and Technology, complete development and implementation of a sound methodology to capture and report planned and actual total project and increment level costs (repeat recommendation from the 2011 VA Office of Inspector General audit report).
No. 7
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 9/18/2017
We recommended the Executive in Charge and Chief Information Officer, Office of Information and Technology, ensure project managers capture and report reliable cost data and maintain adequate audit trails to support how the cost information reported on the Project Management Accountability System Dashboard was derived in the interim until actions to automate budget traceability and shift VA’s IT projects to increment-based contracts are completed (repeat recommendation from the 2011 VA Office of Inspector General audit report).
No. 8
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Information and Technology (OIT)
Closure Date: 9/18/2017
We recommended the Executive in Charge and Chief Information Officer, Office of Information and Technology, clearly define the term “enhancement of an existing system or its infrastructure” and require Service Delivery and Engineering project teams to track and report costs associated with enhancements on the Project Management Accountability System Dashboard.
Total Monetary Impact of All Recommendations
Open: $ 0.00
Closed: $ 6,400,000.00
Date Issued
|
Report Number
14-04705-62

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: 7/15/2015
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health conduct a systematic assessment of the processes each VA medical facility used to address unresolved consults during VHA's system-wide consult review.
No. 2
Not Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 11/13/2015
We recommended that the Interim Under Secretary for Health ensure that if a medical facility's processes are found to have been inconsistent with VHA guidance on addressing unresolved consults, action is taken to confirm that patients have received appropriate care.
No. 3
Not Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Closure Date: 11/13/2015
We recommended that after reviewing the circumstances of any inappropriate resolution of consults, the Interim Under Secretary for Health confer with the Office of Human Resources and the Office of General Counsel or other relevant agency to determine the appropriate administrative action to take, if any.
Date Issued
|
Report Number
13-01545-11

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No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs limit future use of time and materials contracts to those instances where the extent or duration of the work cannot be anticipated with any reasonable degree of confidence.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs ensure that significant new contract requirements are solicited in lieu of merely modifying existing contracts to meet new needs.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs ensure that contractor billings are approved based on sufficient documentation to demonstrate that contractors are meeting performance-based requirements.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs implement improved oversight of contractor activities to ensure they are appropriate to meet contract terms and do not include inherently Governmental functions.
No. 5
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
We recommended the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs develop and implement program performance metrics to determine whether outreach and awareness campaigns are improving veterans’ awareness of and access to VA services and benefits.
Total Monetary Impact of All Recommendations
Open: $ 0.00
Closed: $ 5,000,000.00