| Abstract: | The mysterious medical conditions experienced by the veterans of the Persian Gulf conflict created a major public policy problem for the federal government. The actions of both the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense were both characterized by numerous organizational dysfunctions that frequently plague complex bureaucracies. The inability of these departments to respond adequately to the veterans needs created a contentious political environment in which the federal government was accused of intentional neglect. The problems, however, were primarily the result of communication breakdowns and institutional inertia. |
