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Journal Article Praises VA Health Care

January 17, 2007

Secretary Nicholson: Further Proof of VA’s Top Quality Care

WASHINGTON -- “One of the most striking examples of American health care success” -- that is one medical journal’s recent assessment of the health care system operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

The most recent tribute to VA’s health care system came in an article in the medical journal Neurology.

“The quality of VA’s health care system is recognized by medical professionals and, most importantly, by veterans,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson. “Repeatedly, the medical community holds up VA’s health care system as a model.”

“The VA has achieved remarkable improvements in patient care and health outcomes, and is a cost-effective and efficient organization,” according to the journal. For example, the article cited VA's comprehensive coverage and said it is especially suited to manage chronic disease.

Dr. Michael J. Kussman, VA’s Acting Under Secretary for Health, said the article underscores the Department’s commitment to high quality patient care.

“This shows that VA’s health system is recognized internationally as the benchmark for health care services,” Dr. Kussman said. “It further demonstrates that our commitment to high quality care is benefiting the men and women who have earned the best possible care through service to our country.”

The Neurology article is the second recent study citing the quality of VA health care. In December, a comprehensive study by Harvard Medical School said federal and military hospitals, such as those run by the VA, provide the best care available anywhere for some of the most common life-threatening illnesses.

In 2006, VA received the prestigious “Innovations in American Government” Award from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government for its advanced electronic health records and performance measurement system.

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Larry Scott

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