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An investigation showed that numerous applicants were hired at a Veteran's Affairs Medical Center in Atlanta, Georgia without any form of background screening.

This issue was investigated and confirmed by the Office of the Inspector General.

The VA's Screening Process Gets Audited

The investigation occurred after allegations that the VA had numerous unadjudicated background screenings. This goes against the facility's written policies and could have allowed people to be hired even if they were not eligible to work in the healthcare industry.

Investigators also discovered that VA employees who were hired during a six-month time frame were not tested for potential drug usage. Despite being mandatory for new hires, drug screens did not occur between November 2014 and May 2015.

A Breakdown in the Background Screening Process

According to the results of the investigation, many of the people who received jobs at the VA were screened, but not until long after they started working. Some did not get background checks until several months after they were hired. At the time of the investigation, a few hundred current employees had not yet been screened.

VA policy stipulates that if a background check is not completed within 90 days it is considered to be backlogged. Investigators noted that the facility had a backlog as far back as 2012, but a lack of proper records made it difficult to acquire specific information.

A report summary issued after the investigation explained that "records within the personnel security program were inadequate, policies were not implemented as required and HR staff were not adequately trained." It also noted that the former Coordinator left in 2014 and VA administrators did not take the steps necessary to ensure background and screening policies were properly followed.

VA officials have expressed that they intend to resolve these issues. A spokesperson for the VA, Greg Kendall, said that they remain committed to "ensuring a drug free workplace" at the facility. Officials have agreed to follow the investigator's recommendations, which include assessing the Human Resources program and making sure staff members are properly trained on background screening policies going forward.

Why the Backlog Could Be an Issue for the VA

At this time, it is uncertain whether or not someone with a serious criminal record was able to get a job at the VA and provide treatment to a veteran. The Atlanta facility serves around 130,000 veterans. It takes a large number of employees to staff the medical center, so there could be reason for concern that someone who worked at the hospital should not have been granted employment.

The lack of screening could also have allowed people to receive job offers even if they are not qualified or eligible. Some individuals are prohibited from participating in federally funded healthcare programs or federal contracts. A background screen for the medical industry typically includes a check to see if the applicant is on a list that shows they should not be employed in the healthcare industry.

Why Background Checks are Essential

Backgrounds checks are used to verify identities, confirm levels of education and experience and uncover relevant criminal convictions. Businesses rely on these reports to help them make educated decisions and, when necessary, determine if someone is not eligible for employment.

If you are hiring for positions in the medical industry, turn to Backgrounds Online for authoritative and FCRA compliant background checks. Our reports provide the facts you need to make crucial hiring decisions and help you find the most qualified candidates for any position.