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  • July 2007 (Revised January 2008)
  • Case
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Turnaround at the Veterans Health Administration (A)

By: Amy C. Edmondson, Brian R. Golden and Gary J. Young
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:20
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Abstract

Investigates the challenges that Dr. Kenneth W. Kizer confronted in seeking to create organizational change at the largest integrated health care system in North America, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Kizer was appointed as the Under Secretary of Health, to oversee the VHA, in 1994. Upon Kizer's arrival, it was immediately apparent that the management style that pervaded the VHA was ineffective and out of date. At the same time, the VHA faced inefficient health care delivery systems coupled with a steadily increasing number of patients. Kizer started to make plans to change the VHA into a modern, responsive, efficient, and effective health care organization. However, success in executing on his plans would require challenging a bureaucratic system with a long history. Documents progress, including organizational efficiencies gained that include consolidation of health care facilities, and illuminates leadership actions that facilitate this progress. Clearly, many challenges still lie ahead. Near the end of the case, Dr. Kizer awaits news from Congress on his reappointment for another four-year term.

Keywords

Problems and Challenges; Organizational Change and Adaptation; Transformation; Leadership; Consolidation; Health Care and Treatment; Service Delivery; Health Industry; Public Administration Industry; North and Central America

Citation

Edmondson, Amy C., Brian R. Golden, and Gary J. Young. "Turnaround at the Veterans Health Administration (A)." Harvard Business School Case 608-061, July 2007. (Revised January 2008.)
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About The Author

Amy C. Edmondson

Technology and Operations Management
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More from the Authors
  • Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well By: Amy Edmondson
  • The Dynamics of Team Learning: Harmony and Rhythm in Teamwork Arrangements for Innovation By: Jean-François Harvey, Johnathan R. Cromwell, Kevin J. Johnson and Amy C. Edmondson
  • Workplace Conditions By: Jill Maben, Jane Ball and Amy C. Edmondson
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