VA operates 172 medical centers across the country and last year treated 3.3 million patients. In 1997, VA began consolidating its long-standing patient safety programs and created in 1998 the National Center for Patient Safety. Ames Research Center is NASA's lead center for Information Technology, Aviation Capacity, and Aerospace Operation Systems. It has operated the ASRS since it was established in 1976. The system collects aviation operation reports submitted from pilots, air traffic controllers, flight attendants, mechanics and others that are involved in, or observe, an incident or situation which may compromise aviation safety.
All submissions are voluntary and held in strict confidence.
This has given us the experience, trust and acceptance to act as the developer of the VA's new Patient Safety Reporting System.