Healthcare Inspection Alleged Vision Care Issues and Research Improprieties, James A. Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, Florida

This review evaluated allegations of inadequate vision care, unapproved research activities, and improper influence in directing a research study at the James A. Haley VA Hospital in Tampa, FL. While we confirmed that some polytrauma and traumatic brain injury outpatients did not receive complete eye examinations prior to a VA policy requiring them, we did not substantiate that this condition deviated from expected standards at the time. We also did not substantiate that an occupational therapist was functioning beyond her Scope of Practice, that patients’ rights were being violated, or that patients may have received vision restoration therapy instead of traditional blind rehabilitation services that have proven benefits. We could not confirm or refute that there was improper political pressure to conduct a research study. However, we believe that the subject protocol’s goals appropriately align with VA’s strategic plan. We made no recommendations.