Integrative approach for women with fibromyalgia in a Veterans Affairs Medical Center: An observational study

Fibromyalgia, a complex condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, presents a significant burden on individuals and healthcare systems. This observational study aims to explore the potential of an outpatient integrative care model for the management of fibromyalgia in women, focusing on personalized goals, patient education, non-pharmaceutical treatments, and lifestyle modifications. The primary objective is to assess patient satisfaction and its correlation with pain, quality of life, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. This pilot study seeks to determine the effectiveness of this model in the alleviation of fibromyalgia-related pain and the improvement of overall well-being. Twenty-five women diagnosed with fibromyalgia participated in a 14-week outpatient treatment program at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center, involving weekly patient-directed, integrative group visits and health coaching. Pre- and post-evaluation questionnaires were administered to assess patient satisfaction, patients' subjective sense of empowerment in the management of fibromyalgia, and symptom improvement (i.e., pain, quality of life, depression, and PTSD). In addition, the study evaluated the correlation of patient empowerment with symptom improvement. The integrative care model received high patient satisfaction, with a mean score of 8.04 out of 10. Significant pain reduction was observed based on the Numeric Rating Scale (n = 22, P