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Federal Disability Programs: More Strategic Coordination Could Help Overcome Challenges to Needed Transformation

GAO-08-635 Published: May 20, 2008. Publicly Released: May 27, 2008.
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Highlights

In 2003, GAO designated federal disability programs as a high-risk area because federal disability programs remained grounded in outmoded concepts that have not been updated to reflect the current state of science, medicine, technology, and labor market conditions. In addition, the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) faced management challenges, especially with their disability claims processing. Further, disability experts have expressed concerns about the level of coordination among the many federal agencies that provide benefits and services to individuals with disabilities. GAO was asked to determine: (1) what steps SSA and VA have taken to modernize their disability programs and (2) to what extent SSA and VA coordinate with other federal agencies that provide services to individuals with disabilities. To do this, GAO reviewed literature, agency strategic plans and performance and accountability reports, and interviewed agency officials.

Recommendations

Matter for Congressional Consideration

Matter Status Comments
In order to help ensure that federal disability policy is more clearly stated, programs and policies are better coordinated, and to reduce the possibility of inefficiencies and duplication of programs, Congress, in consultation with key agencies and other stakeholders, may wish to consider authorizing a coordinating entity consisting of leadership from appropriate federal agencies to develop a cost-effective federal strategy to integrate services and support for individuals with disabilities. Options to achieve this include reviving the IDCC or creating a similar entity with the key agency officials represented and clear expectations for outcomes of the entity. A successful coordinated federal effort should include defining and articulating common outcomes and establishing mutually reinforcing joint strategies among federal agencies to achieve identified goals. Further, clear agreement on agency roles and responsibilities and agency accountability for collaborative efforts and outcomes will be critical to success.
Closed – Not Implemented
As of July 2012, Congress took no action on this recommendation.

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Topics

Aid for the disabledClaims processingCost analysisCost controlDisabilitiesDisability benefitsEligibility criteriaEligibility determinationsEmployees with disabilitiesEmploymentEmployment assistance programsEmployment of the disabledFederal employee disability programsInteragency relationsPeople with disabilitiesPolicy evaluationProgram evaluationProgram managementRehabilitation programsRisk managementSchedule slippagesVeterans benefitsVeterans employment programsProgram coordinationProgram goals or objectives