WASHINGTON (March 22, 2006) – In an effort to streamline and modernize the information technology (IT) environment throughout the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), VA will bring its IT resources under more centralized control, the Honorable R. James Nicholson, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, announced today.

"We will build on our status as a world leader in electronic patient records, bringing VA's proven IT expertise to bear on a wider range of issues," Nicholson said. "These efforts are another important step to improve IT effectiveness and efficiency, ensuring veterans continue to receive 21st century health care."

The main feature of the reorganization, which the Secretary referred to as "the federated IT system," will place VA's IT budget, along with IT professionals involved in operation and maintenance work, directly under the Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology. IT workers involved in system development will be decentralized and remain under their respective administrations and staff offices.

Nicholson acknowledged the leadership of Congress in helping VA to move toward this consolidation, which he said will "enhance our operational effectiveness, provide standardization, and eliminate duplication."

Ultimately, he said, the reorganization will improve the Department's ability to provide the full range of benefits and programs to the nation's veterans. "At VA, the veteran is always the bottom line," he said.