I*DEA in the VA: Optimizing the Physician Workforce to Enhance Quality of Care.

Background: The demographic characteristics of veterans has changed significantly in recent years and continues to become more diverse. To enhance the quality of health care for the current community of enrolled veterans, it is critical that the physicians and health care leaders of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) understand the changing demographics and health care needs of the veteran population.

Observations: Studies have shown that increased inclusion, diversity, and equity among clinicians are associated with improved clinical outcomes. Diversity encompasses more than race and gender. Although the VHA workforce is relatively diverse, the same cannot be said about its leadership. The I*DEA (inclusion, diversity, equity, and access) Council is a new program that aims to eliminate gaps in VHA care and benefits to ensure that historically underserved veteran communities receive fair treatment.

Conclusions: Optimizing I*DEA strategies-inclusion of diverse perspectives and ideas, equity of opportunities and accessibility within the VHA workforce-may help to enhance the quality of health care for veterans.