Awards and Accreditations
The VA Healthcare Network Upstate New York is a quality health care organization with numerous awards,
accreditations and affiliations, including:
- VHA Kenneth W. Kizer Quality Award
- Robert W. Carey Award
- United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission - License
- Commission on Cancer, (Hospital Cancer Program) American College of Surgeons - Certification
- The Joint Commission
- College of American Pathologists - Accredited Laboratory
- Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) - Three Year Accreditation
- American Association of Blood Banks (Transfusion Service) - Accreditation
- American College of Radiology Mammographic Imaging Services - Accreditation
- National Planetree 2004 Spirit of Caring Program Award
- Top 100 Most Wired Hospital and Health Systems 2005
Appeals
You have the right to appeal the denial of any VA benefit. There are two methods of appealing a decision:
Informal: You may informally appeal VA health care decisions by speaking with the Patient Advocate at any VA health care facility. The Patient Advocate will work with staff on your behalf to resolve most problems.
Formal: If the Patient Advocate is unable to resolve an issue, you may file a formal appeal. To initiate a formal appeal, contact your local Veterans Service Officer. You have one year from the date of notification of the denial to file an appeal.
Complaints and Concerns
Each facility has their own procedure for complaints and concerns. Generally you can address your concerns with the manager
or supervisor of that area. If you are not satisfied, we encourage you to work with the Patient Advocate at the facility. The
Patient Advocate is there to help you and your family resolve any issues you may have. After working with the Patient Advocate,
if you feel your issue is still unresolved, we encourage you to contact any member of our Management staff for assistance.
Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations
The Joint Commission evaluates health care organizations for safety
and quality of care. If you or your family has a concern, you have the right to contact The Joint Commission at any time. You will need to
summarize your complaint in one to two pages and include the complete name and address of the health care organization. You
may submit your name and contact information or submit your complaint anonymously. Providing your name and contact information
enables The Joint Commission to inform you about the actions taken in response to your complaint, and also to contact you should
additional information be needed
The Joint Commission Office of Quality Monitoring:
E-Mail:
complaint@jcaho.org ***
Fax: Office of Quality Monitoring (630) 792-5636
Mail: Office of Quality Monitoring Joint Commission
One Renaissance Boulevard
Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
For more information about filing a formal complaint with The Joint Commission, you may call (800) 994-6610, weekdays from 8:30 a.m.
- 5:00 p.m. Central Time.
Confidentiality
VA is responsible for maintaining and ensuring the confidentiality of your medical and financial information.
Release of Information (ROI)
You may request a copy of your medical information for yourself or a third party. You must sign a consent form authorizing VA to release the information. The ROI office is able to assist you to:
- Obtain your DD214
- Request a correction or amendment to your medical record
- Have a non-VA form completed by your provider
- Request documents through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
- For more information, ask the ROI clerk for a Health Information Management Services (HIMS) booklet.
Advance Directives — Health Care Proxy, Durable Power of Attorney, Living Will
VA encourages you to think about your health care options through the use of
advanced directives such as a health care proxy, living will, and/or durable power of attorney. Staff at your local facility can help you complete the necessary forms.
Organ Donation
VA participates in the organ donation program. For more information, contact a member of your health care team.
