Justification B - OMB Comments-VA Response (8-26-14)

VA DIALYSIS PILOT ACCESS TO CARE SURVEY
OMB FORM 2900-XXXX

VA Form 10-10067

JUSTIFICATION B:

1. Provide a numerical estimate of the potential respondent universe and describe any sampling or other respondent selection method to be used. Data on the number of entities (e.g., households or persons) in the universe and the corresponding sample are to be provided in tabular format for the universe as a whole and for each strata. Indicate expected response rates. If this has been conducted previously include actual response rates achieved.

Maximum number of Veterans receiving dialysis at VA dialysis pilot centers at any point in time: 240

Sampling methodology: All Veterans receiving dialysis at the pilots at the time of survey administration will be asked to complete the questionnaire.

Expected response rate: 83% (n=200)

2. Describe the procedures for the collection of information, including:

• Statistical methodology for stratification and sample selection

All Veterans receiving dialysis at the VA free-standing dialysis pilot centers will be asked to complete the questionnaire.

• Estimation procedure

N/A

• Degree of accuracy needed

N/A

• Unusual problems requiring specialized sampling procedures

There are no extraordinary problems that require specialized sampling procedures.

• Any use of less frequent than annual data collection to reduce burden

The information collection will occur only once.

3. Describe methods to maximize response rate and to deal with issues of non-response. The accuracy and reliability of information collected must be shown to be adequate for intended uses. For collections based on sampling, a special justification must be provided for any collection that will not yield “reliable” data that can be generalized to the universe studied.

All Veterans will be offered the opportunity to complete the questionnaire. Veterans will be informed that their responses will inform VA’s efforts to improve Veteran access to dialysis care. The response rate is expected to be high as the Veterans are at the dialysis center for 3-4 hours for dialysis treatment.

4. Describe any tests of procedures or methods to be undertaken. Testing is encouraged as an effective means of refining collections to minimize burden and improve utility. Tests must be approved if they call for answers to identical questions of 10 or more individuals.

The Access to Care questionnaire has been developed by a subject matter expert in collaboration with the VA national dialysis program. No testing has been undertaken.

4. Provide the name and telephone number of individuals consulted on statistical aspects of the design and the name of the agency unit, contractor(s), grantee(s), or other person(s) who will actually collect and/or analyze the information for the agency.

Neale R. Chumbler, PhD

Professor and Department Head

Department of Health Policy and Management College of Public Health

University of Georgia

706-369-5975

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