Community Care Radiation Oncology Cost Calculations for a VA Medical Center.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Veterans can now access specialized care normally delivered at large tertiary US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers (VAMCs). The costs are paid by their originating VAMC, but have not been comprehensively examined.

Methods

This study analyzes radiation oncology community care consultations, authorizations, standard episodes of care (SEOCs), and radiation oncology-specific charges at the Richard L. Roudebush VAMC (RLRVAMC) to provide a comprehensive view of the financial effects of sending patients to community care. It also demonstrates obstacles in categorization and suggests improvements to current VA practices.

Results

From October 1, 2021, to February 1, 2024, about $2.7 million was spent by RLRVAMC on community care radiation oncology

SUBMITTER: Shapiro RH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12360816 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature