Leaders from medical technology companies testified at a House Veterans’ Affairs Committee oversight hearing that VA hospitals are falling behind commercial hospitals in adopting life-changing medical technology due to budget constraints and staffing shortages. Rep. Mark Takano criticized the absence of VA representatives at the hearing to discuss challenges in adopting innovative medical devices. Will Gray from Boston Scientific highlighted advances in treating atrial fibrillation that VA hospitals have been slow to adopt. He stated that budget uncertainty, staffing challenges, and procurement inefficiencies are causing delays in acquiring new technology. Jeff DiLullo from Philips emphasized the need for funds, tools, and capabilities at the VA to deliver the best possible care to veterans. Philips has developed Rapid Analysis of Threat Exposure technology using AI to detect infectious diseases early, which has been successful in a pilot program with the Defense Department. DiLullo recommended modernizing the VA’s infrastructure and improving outcomes by connecting all radiology departments and modernizing imaging infrastructure. By doing so, VA hospitals can share resources and expertise, ensuring a consistent standard of care. The VA could also benefit from creating a centralized network to enable seamless data sharing across facilities, the Defense Department, and clinicians within the community care network. Lawmakers are encouraged to work collaboratively to ensure veterans have access to cutting-edge medical technologies.
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