According to the Federal Veterans Administration (VA), a certain county has a relatively high proportion of veterans among its residents, and over the past decade, these veterans have reported a number of health concerns that have not been adequately addressed. The VA does not have its own hospital in this county.
Plan: For the past 5 years, the VA has earmarked several million dollars to pay all 18 hospitals in this county to fund short-term and long-term care for veterans.
Result: Over the past 5 years, VA surveys have indicated no significant decrease in the number of veterans who say they have health concerns that have not been adequately addressed.
Further information: VA surveys indicate that all veterans are aware of the VA funds that would cover their expenses at county hospitals. Veterans in this county span a variety of ages and a variety of health conditions.
In light of the further information, which of the following, if true, does most to explain the result that followed the implementation of the plan?