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The cost of VA-sponsored research
1Center for Health Care Evaluation, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA. pbarnett@odd.stanford.edu
Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) spent $541.4 million on research in 1992-93, with patient care costs increasing by up to $219.8 million. This highlights the financial pressures on VA research funding.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Medical Economics
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Clinical income is decreasing as a research funding source due to healthcare cost reduction pressures.
- Research at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers faces threats from these financial constraints.
- VA research funding is vulnerable as medical care appropriations are a significant, yet unquantified, support source.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the medical care component and total research funds within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
- To assess the financial impact of research activities on VA patient care costs.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a survey of 497 clinician investigators.
- Analyzed data on payroll, facility costs, research grants, and appropriations.
- Estimated the incremental costs associated with VA research.
Main Results:
- Total incremental costs for VA research reached $541.4 million in fiscal year 1992-93.
- Research funding comprised $245.6 million in federal appropriations, $33.1 million in VA-administered grants, and $262.8 million from other VA appropriations.
- Research activities increased VA patient care costs by an estimated $219.8 million.
Conclusions:
- The VA is implementing strategies to enhance the direct benefits of its research.
- Fiscal limitations necessitate that VA and other academic medical centers prioritize research with demonstrable internal advantages.