Medical ADP Systems: Composite Health Care System: Defense Faces a Difficult Task
Abstract
The Composite Health Care System (CHCS) is a state-of-the-art , integrated medical information system the Department of Defense is considering for its 767 medical treatment facilities worldwide. Our objectives were to (1) determine whether Defense will be able to test and evaluate CHCS adequately before its planned procurement/deployment decision, (2) identify Defense's latest cost and funding estimates, and (3) evaluate the reasonableness of Defense's projected benefits. We visited Fort Knox, which serves as Defense's test site for new software development, and 6 of 11 OT&E sites; met with Defense and contractor representatives; and reviewed government and contractor documents. We conducted our evaluation from July 1989 to March 1990, in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards. We have concerns as to whether Defense will be able to realize the projected CHAMPUS benefits. While CHCS may allow facilities to treat more patients, current CHAMPUS regulations allow beneficiaries to get outpatient care from civilian hospitals and physicians without Defense's approval and regardless of whether the military facility has excess capacity. Additionally, the benefit study did not consider restrictions on the number of patients specialists may treat during a given period.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 15, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA220155
Entities
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office