Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins Focuses on Improving VA Programs
During his first Capitol Hill appearance since his confirmation in early February, Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins addressed lawmakers’ concerns about the VA being considered high-risk by the Government Accountability Office. Collins emphasized the importance of identifying which agency programs deliver a “return on investment.”
Breaking Down Silos for EHR Implementation
Collins spoke positively about breaking down internal departmental silos that have been hindering the VA’s Oracle Health electronic health record (EHR) implementation. Despite staffing and contract reductions over the past three months, Collins remains committed to improving the deployment of the new EHR system.
Challenges and Solutions
Senators raised concerns about how recent department cuts would impact the rollout of the new EHR to more VA facilities next year. Collins assured lawmakers that Dr. Neil Evans, the acting program executive director of VA’s EHR Modernization Integration Office, is involved in workforce reorganization efforts to mitigate any potential setbacks.
While cuts to the department’s IT staff may impact EHR rollouts, Collins emphasized the importance of maintaining records for veterans and ensuring a smooth transition to the new system.
Accelerating Deployment
Despite ongoing issues at VA Medical Centers, planned EHR rollouts are moving forward with a renewed focus on collaboration with Oracle Health. Collins has consolidated committees to engage directly with Oracle and accelerate the deployment of the EHR system. Oracle has expressed a commitment to completing the project efficiently.
Addressing Concerns
Lawmakers questioned the simultaneous improvements and new deployments of the EHR system. Collins reiterated the VA’s commitment to accelerating the deployment of the modern electronic health record system after a period of dormancy under the previous administration.
Training on the new EHR system remains a priority for the VA, with Collins assuring lawmakers that employee readiness and utilization of the system will be closely monitored and supported.
About the Author
Andrea Fox is a senior editor of Healthcare IT News. For inquiries, contact afox@himss.org. Healthcare IT News is a HIMSS Media publication.
