Pervasive Infection Control Deficiencies in VA Nursing Homes Exposed in GAO Report

Strategic Insights -

A report released by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has revealed pervasive infection control deficiencies at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) nursing homes in the years leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic. The report, which analyzed data from Fiscal Years 2015 through 2019, found that 95% of VA-operated community living centers (CLCs) had at least one infection control deficiency during the five-year review period. This alarming trend was characterized by repeated and ongoing infection prevention and control deficiencies, which put the health and lives of veterans at risk.

Key Takeaways:

  • 95% of VA-operated community living centers (CLCs) had at least one infection control deficiency from Fiscal Years 2015 through 2019, highlighting a pervasive problem.
  • Approximately 62% of inspected CLCs had infection prevention and control deficiencies in consecutive fiscal years, indicating a pattern of neglect.
  • An additional 19% of CLCs had multiple nonconsecutive infection prevention deficiencies, suggesting ongoing issues.
  • Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Committee on Veterans' Affairs Chair Jon Tester (D-Mont.) requested the GAO report following concerns about poor quality ratings and limited VA oversight.
  • The report's findings have significant implications for the quality of care in VA nursing homes and the safety of veterans, caregivers, and staff.

Statistics:

  • 95% of VA-operated community living centers (CLCs) had at least one infection control deficiency from Fiscal Years 2015 through 2019.
  • 62% of inspected CLCs had infection prevention and control deficiencies in consecutive fiscal years.
  • 19% of CLCs had multiple nonconsecutive infection prevention deficiencies.
  • The report analyzed data from Fiscal Years 2015 through 2019.

Sources:

  • Government Accountability Office (GAO): Report on Infection Control Practices at VA Community Living Centers (available HERE).
  • Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Committee on Veterans' Affairs Chair Jon Tester (D-Mont.): Congressional request for GAO report on VA quality rating system and infection control practices.