Resources

VA report cover

New to the beat, or tackling the VA for the first time? Here is how I would start:

  • Read the VA Performance and Accountability Report. This is an annual document that shows every aspect of the VA’s operations as well as all of its goals – how it wants to decrease waiting times and infection rates, or increase accuracy and outreach. This is a valuable document that gets little attention from the media but can provide a wealth of story ideas.

  • Find local veterans service organizations. These groups – state veterans’ agencies, non-profits such as the American Legion – provide service and fellowship to veterans, and also help them file claims with the VA. It’s the best way to get an outsider’s perspective, and to find local experts. You can search for service organizations or their representatives here.

  • Look for reports from the VA’s inspector general. The IG office produces dozens of reports a year, some on broad national issues and others on individual VA hospitals or regional offices. Anybody covering the VA beat should regularly check the IG’s web site. Follow @VetAffairsOIG on Twitter.

  • Look for cases at the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans’ Claims. This federal court is not part of the VA but specializes in hearing appeals that came from VA decisions. The decisions are posted online, and it is a great way to see the issues – and the delays – that veterans often face.

Other Resources

  • Defense Casualty Analysis System troop casualty data, by operation and theater.

  • Geographic Distribution of VA Expenditures (See data below).  Annual VA spending data at the county, congressional district and state level. Includes compensation and pension; education and vocational rehabilitation and employment; insurance and indemnities; construction and related costs; general operating expenses and related costs; loan guaranty; and medical expenditures. From 1996 through 2011.


Data from Geographic Distribution of VA Expenditures. Download by year.