Takano, Bost, & Mrvan Introduce the VA Electronic Health Record Transparency Act

Bill would require VA to account for all past & future costs of the EHRM project

WASHINGTON, D.C — Today, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mark Takano (D-Calif.), Ranking Member Mike Bost (R-Ill.), and Subcommittee on Technology Modernization Chairman Frank J. Mrvan (D-Ind.) introduced the VA Electronic Health Record Transparency Act after today’s Subcommittee hearing. Following two major Inspector General reports detailing significant issues with VA’s Electronic Health Record Modernization (EHRM) project, this legislation will force VA to account for all costs associated with the project and report those to Congress. Former Subcommittee on Technology Modernization Chair Susie Lee (D-Nev.) and current Member Rep. Anthony Brown (D-Mary.) also joined as cosponsors. See full bill text here. 

“Given this month’s Inspector General reports and what we heard at today’s hearing, it’s clear we need a full accounting of all costs associated with VA’s EHRM project,” said Chairman Takano. “I’ve heard some concerning information about the state of the EHRM project, and I’m worried that the total cost estimate was vastly underestimated by the previous administration. That’s why I’m pleased to join Ranking Member Bost in cosponsoring Chairman Mrvan’s bill, the VA Electronic Health Record Transparency Act. This bill will direct VA to help Congress better understand whether the EHRM project is on the right track to serve our nation’s veterans.” 

“As I have said from the start, VA must be crystal clear on the true cost of the Electronic Health Record Modernization program for the veterans and taxpayers they serve,” said Ranking Member Bost. “Right now, the effort is stumbling. The time has come to look at every dollar going out the door. I am joining Chairmen Takano and Mrvan in introducing the VA Electronic Health Record Transparency Act today to increase oversight and do exactly that.” 

“I regret that today’s hearing did not fully address the many concerns about VA’s EHRM program, particularly in light of this month’s Inspector General reports,” said Chairman Mrvan. “As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Technology Modernization, we must have transparency and know the full cost of the EHRM project. I am proud to introduce the bipartisan VA Electronic Health Record Transparency Act with my colleagues on the Committee, as this bill will provide Congress with the information needed to ensure that this project is implemented successfully and that our veterans receive the care they deserve.” 

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