Improving Veterans’ Access to Care Through Program Integration Support

Challenge

Modernizing tools and applications to optimize scheduling and resource management is a top priority for the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), but juggling the additional responsibilities can be challenging. The Office of Veteran Access to Care (OVAC), formerly ACAP, is tasked with handling the business aspects of the VistA Schedule Enhancement (VSE), a state-of-the-art scheduling tool, and other information technology and scheduling initiatives and directives. These separate but interdependent programs have necessitated the need for additional support and expertise.

Solution

VHA and OVAC contracted Atlas Research to provide robust and integrated program management support. Atlas is scheduling subject matter experts and collecting user stories and feature requirements for the upcoming scheduling enhancements. Atlas will also serve as the intermediary between development teams and OVAC and will also provide strategic planning and analysis for upcoming directives.

Result

Atlas is working with OVAC to improve overall operational efficiency by conducting Six-Sigma program/project evaluations and assisting with the development and creation of new enterprise policies and procedures. In addition, Atlas is providing integrated program management support and supporting the VSE rollout. This support will assist OVAC with the navigation and implementation of positive organizational change, helping OVAC stay focused on improving health care for Veterans across the country.