Perspectives on pain management from the Veterans Health Administration and the defense health agency

Abstract: Over the past decade, the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Defense Health Agency (DHA) have collaborated with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to implement a comprehensive, integrative approach to pain management aimed at minimizing opioid dependency while enhancing patient functionality and health. Central to this initiative is the stepped care model, which provides tailored pain management levels based on individual patient needs. Emphasizing the Whole Health concept, which encompasses physical, behavioral, spiritual, and socioeconomic well-being, both agencies have prioritized nonpharmacological strategies, such as yoga, acupuncture, and mindfulness practices. Ongoing research through the Pain Management Collaboratory (PMC) focuses on pragmatic clinical trials to evaluate and implement these approaches effectively in military populations. This collaborative effort seeks to transform pain management practices by addressing chronic pain as a multifaceted issue, thereby improving outcomes for active duty personnel and veterans alike.

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