VA Community Clinics: Networks' Efforts to Improve Veterans' Access to PrimaryCare Vary

摘要

This report responds to your request for information on Veterans HealthAdministration (VHA)'s use of community-based clinics to improve veterans' access to primary care. Specifically, it describes (1) VHA's planning process for new community-based clinics, (2) networks' implementation of VHA's planning guidlines, and (3) VHA and network oversight of clinic operations. In conducting this study, we reviewed VHA guidance and the 22 networks' plans and proposals for 178 clinics approved between our 1996 testimony and February 1998. We surveyed each network to obtain additional information about their planning and oversight activities. In addition, we interviewed VHA officials responsible for developing planning guidance for networks and for reviewing network activities.