Healthcare Inspection - Discharge, Travel, and Treatment Issues, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, Missouri

OIG evaluated allegations of premature discharge, excessively long travel distance, and unsuccessful treatment in a patient with end stage liver disease. These complaints related to two episodes of VA fee-based care at a St. Louis area private-sector hospital (SLAH). We did not substantiate the complainant’s allegation that “someone dropped the ball” in the care of this patient. The patient was referred to a qualified private-sector specialist for a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure. The patient and his wife were aware of the rationale for the procedure, location of SLAH, and the potential complications. The patient was discharged in stable condition, and the medical record reflects adequate communication between the various medical providers to ensure continuity of care. We made no recommendations.