**GAO-08-918**                      Published: Jul 31, 2008. Publicly Released: Jul 31, 2008.                  

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## Highlights

In July 2004, GAO reported that the six Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers it audited lacked a reliable property control database and effective inventory policies and procedures. In July 2007, GAO reported that continuing internal control weaknesses over IT equipment at four case study locations at VA resulted in an increased risk of theft, loss, and misappropriation of IT equipment assets. GAO's two reports included 18 recommendations to improve internal control over IT equipment. GAO was asked to perform a follow-up audit to determine (1) whether VA has made progress in implementing GAO's prior recommendations for improving internal control over IT equipment and (2) the effectiveness of VA's current internal controls to prevent theft, loss, or misappropriation of IT equipment. GAO reviewed policies and other pertinent documentation, statistically tested IT equipment inventory controls at four geographically disparate locations, and interviewed VA officials.

## Recommendations

## Recommendations for Executive Action

See All 5 Recommendations

## Full Report

Highlights

Full Report (52 pages)

Accessible Text 

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## Topics

Veterans

AccountabilityAuditsData storageEmployeesEquipment inventoriesFederal propertyFederal property managementInformation technologyInternal controlsInventory controlIT policiesPropertyProperty and supply managementProtective equipmentRecordsStrategic planningTest equipmentPolicies and procedures