A group of Virginia tech companies is going to help the Department of Veterans Affairs hospital system fix its scheduling system.

The Northern Virginia Technology Council will offer free help to the VA by examining the troubled health care system's scheduling system and suggesting improvements.

The move was announced by the tech council and Sen. Mark R. Warner, D-Va. This summer Congress passed a Warner-sponsored bill that required the VA to seek help from the private sector to improve its technology systems.

The move is similar to a 2011 initiative from Warner that directed Arlington National Cemetery to seek private-sector support to deal with problems involving grave registrations and the handling of remains. The NVTC also assisted with that project.