Combined Assessment Program Summary Report – Evaluation of Nurse Staffing in Veterans Health Administration Facilities April–September 2013

The purpose of the evaluation was to determine the extent to which Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities implemented the staffing methodology for nursing personnel and to evaluate nurse staffing on an acute care unit, a long-term care unit, and a mental health unit. OIG conducted this review at 28 VHA medical facilities during Combined Assessment Program reviews performed across the country from April 1 through September 30, 2013. OIG re-emphasized the need for all facilities to fully implement the methodology and accurately address patient needs with safe and adequate staffing. VHA submitted a detailed action plan that was still in progress at the time of this report. (See Combined Assessment Program Summary Report – Evaluation of Nurse Staffing in Veterans Health Administration Facilities, Report No. 13-01744-187, April 30, 2013.) Therefore, OIG will not make repeat recommendations but will continue to review.