Improving Quality of Care

Improving the quality of care provided at VA medical centers is one of the department's top priorities. As the nation's largest health network, VA is constantly looking for ways to serve Veterans in the best, most efficient and most cost-effective way possible.

One way VA has been able to improve quality of care is by embracing new technologies. Over the past several years, VA has been able to reduce duplicated tests and medication errors and save money by incorporating:

• Electronic Health Records
• Bar-coded medication administration
• Digital filmless radiology, and
• Computerized order entry for laboratory tests, medications and procedures.

But finding newer, better ways to treat a condition is just half of the plan.

In January 2012, VA also established the Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation. This new office works to develop personal, patient-centered models of care for Veterans who receive health care services at VA medical centers.

By implementing new technologies and reinforcing a patient-centered approach to treatment, VA will continue to be a national health care leader.

Learn More:

• VA Office Developing Innovative Patient-Centered Model of Care for Veterans
• VA Announces 2012 Industry Innovation Competition
• VA Announces Expansion of Virtual Lifetime Electronic Record
• VA Launches Personalized Health Benefits Handbook