Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection of the Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center in Alabama

Report Information

Issue Date
Report Number
23-00024-133
VISN
7
State
Alabama
District
VA Office
Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Report Author
Office of Healthcare Inspections
Report Type
Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection Program
Report Topic
Medical Staff Privileging Credentialing
Patient Safety
Major Management Challenges
Healthcare Services
Recommendations
2
Questioned Costs
$0
Better Use of Funds
$0
Congressionally Mandated
No

Summary

Summary

This Office of Inspector General (OIG) Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection Program report describes the results of a focused evaluation of the quality of care delivered in the inpatient and outpatient settings of the Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center in Alabama. This evaluation focused on five key operational areas:
•    Leadership and organizational risks
•    Quality, safety, and value
•    Medical staff privileging
•    Environment of care
•    Mental health (suicide prevention initiatives)

The OIG issued two recommendations for improvement in two areas:
1.    Medical staff privileging
•    Ongoing Professional Practice Evaluation activities

2.    Environment of care
•    Safe and clean patient care areas
 

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Open Recommendation Image, Square
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)

The Chief of Staff ensures service chiefs recommend continuation of current privileges based on Ongoing Professional Practice Evaluation activities

No. 2
Open Recommendation Image, Square
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)

The Director ensures staff keep patient care areas safe and clean.