Conclusions

VA has opportunities to save millions of dollars by systematically considering consolidating food production, employing VCS workers to provide inpatient food services, and competitive sourcing. VA already has experience in implementing these options at a number of locations, although VA’s experience with food service contractors is limited. Using a systematic approach to assess available options at each location would allow VA to provide food service at the lowest cost consistent with maintaining quality.
What GAO Found

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) could save millions of dollars by systematically consolidating food production, employing Veterans Canteen Service workers to provide inpatient food services, and using competitive sourcing. VA already has experience in implementing these options at several locations, although VA's experience with food service contractors is limited. Using a systematic approach to assess available options at each location would allow VA to provide food service at the lowest cost while maintaining quality.