Healthcare Inspection - Review of Referral and Consultation Processes in VISN 20 and Southern Oregon Rehabilitation Center and Clinics at White City, OR

OIG evaluated the validity of allegations regarding poor coordination and resource allocation within the Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 20 and at the VA Southern Oregon Rehabilitation Center and Clinics (SORCC), White City, OR. OIG did not substantiate allegations regarding poor coordination of care and resource allocation in regard to SORCC. While patients do encounter delays in gaining access to specialty services in non-emergent situations, we found that SORCC, in conjunction with VISN 20, is actively engaged in a process to improve timeliness of surgical and imaging services for its beneficiaries. OIG did not substantiate that care reviewed in orthopedic surgery, neurologic surgery, and imaging services was below VA standards. OIG found that the completion of consults and the delivery of recommended treatments at SORCC occurred in compliance with prioritization as outlined in VA’s Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents, and Survivors. While timeliness of surgical specialty referral appointments and care is not always optimal, this does not equate to a breach in VA standards. OIG made no recommendations.