The Resurrection of Interdisciplinary Pain Rehabilitation: Outcomes Across a Veterans Affairs Collaborative
Abstract: Despite empirical support for interdisciplinary pain rehabilitation programs improving functioning and quality of life, access to this treatment approach has decreased dramatically over the last 20 years within the United States but has grown significantly in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Between 2009 and 2019, VA pain rehabilitation programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities increased 10-fold in the VA, expanding from two to 20. The aim of this collaborative observational evaluation was to examine patient outcomes across a subset of six programs at five sites.
While most individuals achieve the transition to civilian life smoothly, some face significant challenges. Although numerous support services are available to those who need them, …