Veterans' Electronic Health Record Modernization: Restructure, Oversight, and Performance Standards.
This Act imposes strict quality and performance criteria on the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) new Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. It halts further deployment of the Oracle-Cerner system until existing facilities demonstrate improved healthcare outcomes, while also mandating strong protections against the commercial misuse of veterans' personal data. The goal is to ensure safer and more efficient care for veterans and protect taxpayer money through better contract oversight.
Key points
Deployment of the new VA EHR system is paused until current facilities meet or exceed pre-deployment metrics for quality of care, access, and productivity.
Requires contract renegotiation or potential termination with the vendor (Oracle-Cerner) if performance standards are not met within 180 days, aiming to protect taxpayer interests.
Mandates a total prohibition on contractors monetizing, selling, or misusing veterans' health and personal identifying information.
Establishes enhanced oversight, including an independent contract negotiator and increased support and training for VA medical staff to reduce burnout and improve job satisfaction.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1125
Sponsor: Sen. Tester, Jon [D-MT]
Process start date: 2023-03-30