Department Of Defense Deployment Health Clinical Center

Specialized Care Program (SCP)

What Is It?

The Specialized Care Program is an intensive treatment program designed to address persistent disabling symptoms among Gulf War veterans. It features three-weeks of multidisciplinary treatment of patients in small groups of three to eight individuals.

The program is based upon internationally recognized centers for management of chronic illness. It provides state-of-the-art care for those suffering from multiple symptoms such as:

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The Program's Goal

• Improve conditioning and decrease symptoms via a gradual, paced physical reactivation program



• Provide opportunities to improve in work performance and other activities of daily living



• Promote overall well-being, symptom reduction, improved coping and decreased health care utilization through the practice of positive health behaviors and skills



• Actively involve each participant in creating an individualized symptom management plan.

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What Type of Care is Provided?

The Specialized Care Program is designed to meet each participant's needs at a variety of levels. In addition to treatment of physical symptoms, there are interventions to assist in dealing with the stressors which accompany chronic pain and chronic illness such as loss of former abilities, strain on relationships, and transition from the military.

This program provides carefully coordinated delivery of care that takes into account many medical perspectives.

Specialized Care Program patients work closely with an internist and a health psychologist. Other members of the health care team include an occupational therapist, physical therapist, wellness coordinator, clinical social worker, and a nutritionist. A range of other medical specialists are also available depending on a patient's medical needs. The Program includes:

• A thorough review of medical history and past diagnostic testing with an internist



• Education regarding symptoms and personal health care management



• Support and education for family members



• Groups and one-on-one meetings to discuss the impacts of physical symptoms, life stressors, and Gulf War experiences



• Information regarding benefits for veterans

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Who Can Participate?

The Specialized Care Program is available to members of all armed services and components, as well as to family members affected by persistent symptoms.

The Specialized Care Program emphasizes treatment over evaluation. Persons desiring admission must complete Phase I and Phase II of the Comprehensive Clinical Evaluation Program (CCEP) or a similar medical evaluation. To register for CCEP, you may call 1-800-796-9699.

Prior to admission to the Specialized Care Program, each person's medical record is extensively reviewed by a multidisciplinary team of health care professionals. The purpose of this review is to determine whether or not the Specialized Care Program would be an appropriate treatment.

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Other Information

The Program is a three-week intensive outpatient program that operates Monday through Friday.

Coordination for local accommodations will be made by the Deployment Health Clinical Center.

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