News Reader.info

This initiative fosters innovation and empowers frontline staff to fundamentally change the culture within the Veterans Health Administration. VA Augusta experienced a 240% increase in

Spark-Seed-Spread applicants from last year, a clear reflection of its growing culture of innovation.

"We are thrilled to partner with these staff innovators for the FY24 Spark-Seed-Spread program," said Kelsey Shull, VA Augusta Innovation Specialist. "Their dedication to improving the lives

of Veterans through innovation is inspiring. We believe their projects will play a pivotal role in changing Veterans lives - and strengthening VA culture."

The 11 innovators selected for FY24 Spark-Seed-Spread represent a diverse range of projects and ideas, from new technology to improve patient care to novel approaches in healthcare

administration. What unites them is a shared vision of creating solutions tailored to the needs of Veterans. These innovators will receive funding, mentorship, training, and the opportunity

to collaborate with experts and stakeholders across the VHA and industry. The innovators are:

•             Lynn Dowling, Evidenced-Based Practice Nursing

•             Stephanie Blizzard, Pharmacy Service (Columbia VA Health Care System)

•             Jeanovan Owens, Pharmacy Service (VA Northern California Health Care System)

VA Augusta also announced the addition of a second innovation specialist, Christian Ndeti, whose experience in coaching and mentorship paired with her commitment to excellence in Veteran

care will strengthen VA Augusta’s innovation efforts.

For more information about the FY24 Spark-Seed-Spread program and the VHA Innovators Network, please visit Innovators Network | VHA Innovation Ecosystem.