Reducing Waits for VHA Services Through Use of Tools of Governance

Abstract

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has been plagued by one of the largest scandals in its history since receiving cabinet level status: scandal regarding veterans experiencing excessive wait times for needed health care services. This paper explores the current crisis within the VHA and the agency’s response to public outcry through use of both traditional and innovative tools of governance. Through use of strategic planning, contracting, and public information campaigns, the VHA is placing a focus on the outcomes and effectiveness of these tools to resolve the current wait list problems. This paper explores the aforementioned tools of governance and the steps currently being taken within the VHA to ensure effectiveness, equity, and efficiency in countering some of the largest challenges existing with application of the governance paradigm to the delivery of public services.

Keywords:

• leadership and organizational change
• management
• workforce/workplace issues in human service organizations