The American Pain Foundation reports that the U.S. House of Representatives has voted to include language from the Military Pain Act (HR 5465) in the National Defense Authorization Act, HR 5658. This provision will require the Department of Defense to develop and maintain a comprehensive pain management plan for all active service members.

Rep. Loeback Votes to Support Our Troops & Veterans

Pain is the most common symptom in service members returning from combat and is the leading cause of disability amongst our nation’s veterans. Today, roughly 47% of returning Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have reported pain-related problems and symptoms. Yet, the Department of Defense does not have a comprehensive, consistent, or adequate pain care program.

In response, Congressman Loebsack successfully included a critical provision in the National Defense Authorization Act during Committee mark-up that will tackle the deficiency of pain care in the military health care system. First, the Secretary of Defense will be required to develop a plan to implement a comprehensive pain care initiative that will ensure delivery and adequacy of care across programs and facilities. Second, the Secretary of Defense will be required to address the inclusion of comprehensive pain care services in TRICARE.

Content by Diana E. Lee.