Challenge
Rolling out a new program can be challenging and time-consuming without dedicated coordination, oversight, and monitoring. However, it is a necessary component of organizational transformation and modernization that cannot be ignored. Successful program implementation is even more critical when implementing a potentially lifesaving new program, such as REACH-VET, a predictive analytics tool that proposes to predict Veterans who are high-risk for suicide sooner than the traditional in-office method. The REACH-VET analytics software also proposes to use statistical diagnoses to help develop more timely interventions than clinical diagnoses alone.
Solution
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Center for Innovation (VACI) contracted Atlas Research, through the Program Management/Lean/Six Sigma (PMLSS) Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA), to provide program support and coordination for the REACH-VET enterprise rollout. Dr. David Shulkin, Under Secretary for Health at VA, made this a high level priority.
Atlas is overseeing the two-phase program and working closely with the VACI and VA Medical Centers to host a technical kickoff meeting, provide day-to-day execution of the rollout, and serve as the central point of coordination throughout the duration of the project. A designated Program Coordinator is acting as a liaison between numerous VACI teams and clinical end users. The Program Coordinator is also responsible for building trust and confidence among the varied partners, which requires a great deal of face-to-face interaction.
Result
Atlas is working with VACI to provide day-to-day program management and coordination for its VET-REACH rollout. The Program Liaison is coordinating all interaction between the technology innovators, Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), evaluation team, and clinical end users to gather important feedback, facilitate quick responses to individuals seeking support, and ensure a seamless transition.