VA redirects $800M to upgrade EHR systems, infrastructure
Healthcare facilities run by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may be receiving upgrades thanks to an infusion of funds, the agency said.
On Wednesday, the VA revealed an $800 million plan to improve infrastructure at its medical centers and hospitals nationwide, guided by its Veterans Health Administration's Non-Recurring Maintenance (NRM) program.
The NRM dictates repairs and upgrades at VA healthcare organizations through requests from clinicians and staff working at the sites. The funds will be used to modernize both the buildings themselves and the technology used for care delivery.
The VA said that $800 million will be allocated to improve electronic health record systems, in addition to providing medical equipment, and repairing everything from sprinklers and alarms to elevators and air conditioners.
“This is another step forward in our efforts to make VA work better for the Veterans, families, caregivers, and survivors we are charged with serving,” VA Secretary Doug Collins said in a statement. “Improved facilities, equipment, and infrastructure help improve care for Veterans, and these additional funds will enable VA to achieve that goal.”
The agency said the realignment of cash was made possible by its ongoing restructuring, which includes a 30,000-staff reduction and the centralization of its support functions, such as call centers.
The additional money brings NRM funding for 2025 to a total of $2.8 billion—a roughly $500 million increase to its 2024 budget, the VA confirmed.
In total, the agency operates 1,380 healthcare centers nationwide, providing a full range of services to former members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Chad is an award-winning writer and editor with over 15 years of experience working in media. He has a decade-long professional background in healthcare, working as a writer and in public relations.