Breadcrumb

Added Measures Could Reduce Veterans’ Risk of COVID-19 Exposure in Transitional Housing

Report Information

Issue Date
Report Number
20-02774-26
VA Office
Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Report Author
Office of Audits and Evaluations
Report Type
Review
Report Topic
COVID-19
Major Management Challenges
Healthcare Services
Leadership and Governance
Recommendations
4
Questioned Costs
$0
Better Use of Funds
$0
Congressionally Mandated
No

Summary

Summary
The VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) reviewed the measures taken by the Veterans Health Administration’s (VHA) Homeless Program Office, medical facilities, and community service providers to mitigate COVID-19 risks in transitional housing programs for veterans experiencing homelessness. The OIG found that while transitional housing service providers successfully implemented four of six specific Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 risk mitigation measures, the providers could have strengthened implementation of two others. VHA and service provider staff said the Homeless Program Office allowed them the flexibility to isolate vulnerable veterans, facilitate telehealth exams, and coordinate the provision of medical care in the community. Some service providers and VA medical facilities also developed their own best practices for reducing COVID-19 risks. As the pandemic continues, VHA and its service providers will need to sustain their efforts and strengthen measures to minimize COVID-19 exposure among veterans experiencing or at risk for homelessness. Staff at all 14 facilities assessed by the OIG review team made substantial progress on four measures: cleaning frequently with disinfectant, screening veterans for symptoms, creating isolation site plans, and maintaining adequate cleansing and sanitation supplies and personal protective equipment. The OIG found improved communications from the Homeless Program Office to medical facilities helped these efforts. However, several facilities appeared to struggle with the remaining two measures: identifying high-risk veterans and communicating suggested precautions and social distancing. Interviewees expressed concerns about service providers’ ability to maintain enough personal protective equipment for veterans during the prolonged pandemic. Medical facility staff will need to coordinate with service providers to help them develop contingency plans. The OIG made four recommendations to the under secretary for health regarding additional measures VHA could take to strengthen the implementation of CDC guidelines at the service providers’ facilities.

Open Recommendation Image, SquareOpenClosed and Implemented Recommendation Image, CheckmarkClosed-ImplementedNot Implemented Recommendation Image, X character'Closed-Not Implemented
No. 1
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Issue guidance to medical facility staff on how the COVID 19 At Risk Veteran Report should be used to help service providers identify high risk veterans and educate those veterans on the need for extra precautions.
No. 2
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Ensure medical facility staff are monitoring and assisting with the service providers’ implementation of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance, including updates.
No. 3
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Identify service providers that have not fully implemented the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s six feet social distancing guidelines, particularly for sleeping and meal areas, and encourage them to implement alternative measures or use VA options to help mitigate space limitations.
No. 4
Closed and Implemented Recommendation Image, Checkmark
to Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Monitor the availability of personal protective equipment at service providers’ residences, and help develop contingency plans in the event of a prolonged pandemic or surge.