Rogers, D. G., Frank, J. W., Wesolowicz, D. M., Nolan, C., Schroeder, A., Falker, C., …
Edmond, S. N. (2023). Video-telecare collaborative pain management during COVID-19: A
single-arm feasibility study. BMC Primary Care, 24, 134. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12875-023-
02052-2
This feasibility study evaluated a virtual pain management program (VCPM) for 133 veterans on
high-dose opioids during COVID-19. Interventions included tapering support, buprenorphine
initiation, and behavioral therapy. Results showed significant opioid reductions and high patient
satisfaction. Although limited by single-arm design, findings demonstrate telehealth’s potential
to deliver effective, multidisciplinary pain care under resource constraints.
Sellinger, J. J., Martino, S., Lazar, C., Mattocks, K., Rando, K., Serowik, K., … Becker, W.
C. (2021). The acceptability and feasibility of screening, brief intervention, and referral to
treatment for pain management among New England veterans with chronic pain: A pilot study.
Pain Practice, 22(1), 28–38. https://doi.org/10.1111/papr.13023
This pilot implemented the SBIRT-PM model—screening, motivational interviewing, and
referral—for 40 veterans with chronic pain. High satisfaction and adherence were reported, with
most participants completing follow-ups. Although limited in scope, the study highlights
motivational interviewing as a practical tool to increase adherence to conservative therapies,
reinforcing its integration into rehabilitation workflows.
Wilson, M., Dolor, R. J., Lewis, D., Regan, S. L., Meulen, M. B., & Winhusen, T. J. (2023).
Opioid dose and pain effects of an online pain self-management program to augment usual care
in adults with chronic pain: A multisite randomized clinical trial. Pain, 164(4), 877–885.
https://doi.org/10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002785
This multisite RCT evaluated the Goalistics online self-management program in 402 adults on
long-term opioids. Compared with usual care, participants achieved greater opioid dose
reductions without worsening pain. Results offer strong evidence for digital interventions that
empower patients, reduce medication reliance, and improve outcomes, making them highly
applicable to rehabilitation centers seeking patient-driven solutions.
Conclusion
The reviewed studies collectively reinforce the effectiveness of conservative and
interdisciplinary pain strategies in reducing opioid use and enhancing functional recovery.
Evidence supports stepped-care sequencing, psychological interventions, and technology-based
tools as effective, scalable solutions. Equity-focused initiatives demonstrate the importance of
addressing social determinants in expanding access to pain management. For IRFs, adopting opt-
out policies that prioritize conservative care empowers clinicians, accelerates response times, and
aligns treatment with patient-centered, evidence-based standards. Together, this body of
evidence provides a robust foundation for transforming pain management into a consistent,
timely, and equitable practice across rehabilitation settings.