Evaluating how Veterans receive emergency care inside versus outside the VA system

Evaluating the VA Make-or-Buy Decision in Emergency Care

NIH-funded research Veterans Admin Palo Alto Health Care Sys · NIH-11085066

This study looks at how getting emergency care at VA hospitals compares to getting it from outside providers, to see which option gives Veterans better quality care and costs less, helping decision-makers choose the best ways to support Veterans' health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Admin Palo Alto Health Care Sys NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Palo Alto, United States)
Project IDNIH-11085066 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of the VA's decision to provide emergency care either within its facilities or through external providers. It aims to understand how these choices affect the quality and cost of care for Veterans. By comparing the outcomes of care received at VA facilities versus non-VA facilities, the study seeks to inform policymakers about the best options for Veterans' health. The research employs a quasi-experimental approach to analyze data on care access and outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans who have utilized emergency care services, either within the VA system or through external providers.

Not a fit: Patients who have not accessed emergency care services or those who are not Veterans may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved emergency care options for Veterans, ensuring they receive the best quality care at the most appropriate cost.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding care access and quality differences can lead to significant improvements in healthcare delivery, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Palo Alto, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.