New telehealth helps rural Women Veterans with chronic pain
VA Research News Briefs

Photo: ©iStock/Srdjanns74
(04/02/2026)
Researchers with the Office of Rural Health at the Iowa City VA created a pain self-management telehealth tool designed specifically for rural-dwelling Women Veterans. The program was delivered primarily over video and involved group therapy discussions along with physical activities such as walking, yoga, and breathing exercises. In a pilot group of Women Veterans with chronic pain, 87% reported improvements one month later. Participants said the telehealth program helped with engagement and allowed them to connect with other Veterans with chronic pain while still retaining a sense of individual identity. The initial findings suggest this telehealth program could be a good way to help rural Women Veterans with chronic pain. (Psychological Services, February 2026)