The Veterans Administration recently announced that it has made significant improvements to its Oracle electronic health record system after pausing new deployments for over 18 months. The agency focused on enhancing the EHR and ensuring patient safety at five VA health systems, resulting in increased veteran trust and clinician satisfaction.
During the reset period of the EHR modernization program, the VA collaborated with Oracle to address errors and implement hundreds of system improvements. They also updated contracts to hold the company accountable for meeting performance metrics, with monetary credits offered for any shortcomings. Additionally, a new process was established to promptly address system concerns as they arise.
As a result of these efforts, the VA is now preparing for new deployments in 2026. Deputy Secretary Tanya Bradsher stated that veteran outpatient trust scores have risen at all VA sites utilizing the Oracle Health EHR since the reset period began. Outages have significantly decreased, with the system operating without interruptions for the majority of the past 16 months.
The VA conducted direct veteran surveys and found that outpatient trust scores increased at all EHR sites. The improvements were particularly notable at Columbus VA, Walla Walla VA, Mann-Grandstaff VA, Roseburg VA, and White City VA. The VA also highlighted the success of the Oracle Health EHR launch at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Healthcare Center in Chicago, which surpassed previous rollouts.
Despite these advancements, the Office of Inspector General identified misalignments in responses to system outages between the VA and Oracle Health. The audit report emphasized the need for consistent response standards and enhanced controls to prevent future outages and safeguard veterans’ care.
Looking ahead, discussions are expected to take place regarding scheduling go-lives in 2025. Former Rep. Doug Collins has been nominated by President-elect Donald J. Trump to serve as the next VA Secretary, promising to streamline operations, combat corruption, and ensure that every veteran receives their deserved benefits.
In a statement, Deputy Secretary Bradsher expressed satisfaction with the progress made during the EHR modernization program’s pause. The improvements in veteran trust and system performance demonstrate the agency’s commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery for our nation’s veterans.
