Chronic and acute pain affects many Veterans, and at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), no one faces it alone. Pain management at VA is grounded in a team-based, whole health approach, bringing together doctors, nurses, physical therapists, pharmacists, and other health care providers to deliver coordinated, compassionate care. Each health care provider plays a vital role in helping Veterans find relief and improve their quality of life. Keep reading to learn more about pain management roles across VA and how you can join our team.
Physicians: Guiding Diagnosis and Treatment
Physicians play a key role in providing pain management care to Veterans and are often the first point of contact for Veterans experiencing pain. VA doctors:
- Diagnose the underlying cause of pain through exams and imaging
- Develop individualized treatment plans that may include medications, procedures, or referrals
- Collaborate with other specialists to ensure safe, effective, and holistic care
VA doctors lead the care team, ensuring each Veteran’s unique needs guide the overall pain management strategy. Explore open pain management physician positions here.
Nurses: Coordinating Care and Supporting Veterans
Nurses are the backbone of VA’s pain management system, often serving as the most frequent point of contact for Veterans. They:
- Monitor symptoms and progress over time
- Educate Veterans and families on pain management strategies, medications, and lifestyle changes
- Provide emotional support and encouragement through ongoing care
- Help coordinate follow-up appointments and communication between providers
Nurses ensure Veterans never feel alone in their pain management journey. See if there’s an open pain management nurse position that’s right for you.
Physical Therapists: Restoring Function and Mobility
Movement is key to recovery—and physical therapists at VA empower Veterans to regain strength, function, and independence. They:
- Design tailored exercise programs to reduce pain and prevent further injury
- Use hands-on techniques to improve mobility and physical function
- Teach Veterans strategies for safe movement and long-term wellness
- Promote non-opioid approaches to pain relief through activity and rehabilitation
By focusing on restoring what pain takes away, VA physical therapists help Veterans reclaim daily activities and quality of life. Discover open physical therapist roles across VA.
Pharmacists: Optimizing Medications for Safety and Relief
Pharmacists at VA do far more than dispense prescriptions—they are key partners in managing safe and effective pain treatment. They:
- Review and adjust medication plans to avoid interactions or overuse
- Counsel Veterans on how to take medications safely and effectively
- Recommend non-opioid alternatives or adjunct therapies when appropriate
- Partner with doctors and nurses to monitor progress and reduce risks
With expertise in pain medications, VA pharmacists help balance symptom relief with patient safety. Check out current pharmacy openings here.
Join Our Team
With 77% of Veterans reporting pain control as one of their top three primary care priorities, pain management is crucial to helping Veterans live fuller, healthier lives. If you’re All About Veterans like we are, consider a rewarding career at VA.
Learn more on VA Careers.
