Department of Veterans Affairs
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Department of Veterans Affairs
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has a wide-ranging statistical program that supports its mission to provide benefits and care to veterans. This work is primarily managed by the Office of Data Governance and Analytics and its key component, the National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics (NCVAS).
Key Statistical Programs and Data Resources
| • | Veteran Population Projections (VetPop): One of the most significant statistical products from the VA is the Veteran Population Projection Model (VetPop). This model is used to estimate and project the veteran population at various geographic levels (national, state, county) for decades into the future. The projections are broken down by key demographics such as age, sex, period of service, and race/ethnicity. This data is critical for the VA in planning for future healthcare needs, benefits, and resource allocation. |
| • | Open Data Portal: The VA operates an Open Data Portal that provides public access to a large number of datasets and reports related to veterans and VA programs. This includes information on veteran demographics, VA facilities and expenditures, and performance metrics for various benefit programs. The portal is a key tool for promoting transparency and enabling researchers, policymakers, and the public to conduct their own analysis. |
| • | Claims and Benefits Data: The VA provides detailed, weekly data and reports on the processing of claims for benefits like disability compensation, pension, and education. This data includes metrics on claims inventory, backlog, and accuracy, which helps the public and Congress track the VA's performance in serving veterans. |
| • | Surveys and Research: The VA conducts and sponsors a variety of surveys and research studies to better understand the health, well-being, and needs of the veteran population. For example, the National Survey of Veterans collects data on veterans' use of VA services and their overall well-being. The VA also has a robust Epidemiology Program that conducts studies on the health effects of military service and environmental exposures, such as burn pits and Agent Orange. |
| • | Data-Driven Decision Making: Internally, the VA uses data and analytics extensively to inform policy and improve services. The Office of Data Governance and Analytics ensures that the VA's data policies are aligned with federal standards and promotes the use of data for evidence-based decision-making across the department. This includes using data to improve efficiency, target services to those most in need, and evaluate the effectiveness of new programs. |