A brief summary of workers' compensation performance improvement projects 2008 to 2012 in the Veterans Health Administration.
BACKGROUND
The Veterans Health Administration undertook a series of performance improvement projects (PIP) using local initiatives identified through a national committee of regional workers' compensation representatives.


METHODS
A steering committee identified five types of risks and interventions that were considered worthwhile. They defined performance metrics as outcome measures and distinguished short-term from long-term disability management success.


RESULTS
Eight specific PIPs were implemented. No statistically significant differences in the planned outcome metrics were identified, although cost-benefit evaluations did identify a benefit.


CONCLUSIONS
Conducting quantitative PIPs in a large system requires top management commitment, sequestration of funds, and mature systems.
From the War-Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Office of Public Health, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC.
Michael J
MJ
Hodgson
D019090:Case Management / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003284:Contract Services; D004282:Documentation / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D019451:Information Management; D007345:Insurance Claim Review; D007857:Leadership; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D058996:Quality Improvement; D014481:United States; D014493:United States Department of Veterans Affairs / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards; D014942:Workers' Compensation / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards