Advancing Pain Care for Veterans

That same principle applies to the delivery of health care.

At the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System, that standard is reflected in the work of Dr. Sandra DiScala, the healthcare systems only Board-Certified Pain Management Pharmacist (BCPMP).

In its first year, more than 200 pharmacists attempted the BCPMP certification and only 59 earned the credential, placing Dr. DiScala among a select group. On paper, the certification is impressive. In conversation, its rigor becomes even clearer. 

There is no formal study guide, prep course or exam boot camp. Candidates receive a broad outline of possible topics and a limited testing window. Preparation relies entirely on clinical experience and applied knowledge. “There wasn’t a study guide or formal materials, just an outline of topics,” Dr. DiScala said. “We had to rely entirely on our clinical experience and knowledge in the field.”

It means Veterans at the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System are cared for by a clinician whose expertise has been evaluated at the highest national level and developed through years of hands-on practice. 

That distinction matters. 

Dr. DiScala said her interest in pain management grew from both professional experience and personal connection. “Pain is just one symptom in our armamentarium, especially in palliative care,” she said. “I also come from a family with many Veterans, so providing high-quality pain management to Veterans is something I feel strongly about.”

Pain is experienced differently by every Veteran. She emphasized the importance of tailoring care to each Veteran’s individual needs and values while supporting physicians and the broader health care team in delivering safe and effective treatment. One of the most common challenges today, Dr. DiScala said, is “there’s a lot of fear in the community, among Veterans and health care staff, about opioids,” she said. “Education and reassurance are critical. Understanding when these medications are appropriate, how they’re used safely and when they’re not.” She stressed that informed decision-making and patient education remain central to effective pain care.

While Veterans may not see the credential during appointments, Dr. DiScala said its impact is constant.

“It reaffirms that we’re teaching, training and practicing evidence-based pain management at the highest level,” she said. “It confirms that what we’re doing here aligns with national standards and best practices.”

As residency director for the Pain Management and Palliative Care Pharmacy Residency Program (PGY2), Dr. DiScala helps train general pharmacists to become specialists. In her role, she ensures future pharmacists are prepared to meet the same high standards of clinical excellence, safety and Veteran-centered care.       

“We work closely with physicians and the health care team to make sure Veterans receive the safest, most effective treatment for their needs,” Dr. DiScala said. “Whether it’s pain, diabetes, hypertension or something else, pharmacists are embedded across inpatient and outpatient care, always focused on what’s best for the Veteran.”

Dr. DiScala’s achievement reflects the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System’s ongoing commitment to excellence, safety and evidence-based care.

The standard is the standard and here, it shows.