Veterans Are Getting Access to Acupuncture and Herbal Remedies—Here's Why the VA Is Making the Switch

If you've ever wondered whether acupuncture needles or herbal remedies could work alongside your regular doctor's visits, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is betting they can—and they're making it official. The VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System is launching a comprehensive complementary and integrative health program at its Pointe Centre 2 clinic in Chattanooga, Tennessee, bringing alternative medicine into mainstream veteran care.

What Exactly Is the VA Offering?

Starting in April 2026, veterans will have access to a range of treatments that go beyond the typical prescription pad. The program includes acupuncture and acupressure, natural products and special diets, and mind-body practices like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga. But here's what makes this different from just "trying alternative medicine on your own"—these therapies are being integrated directly into primary care appointments, meaning your regular doctor is in the loop.

How Does This Actually Work in Practice?

The VA calls this approach "Whole Health," and it's designed to do more than just treat your symptoms. Instead of viewing health as simply the absence of disease, Whole Health focuses on your personal values, goals, and overall quality of life. Think of it as a partnership: you get conventional medical care when you need it, but you also have access to self-care strategies and complementary therapies that empower you to take charge of your own wellness.

One concrete example: the VA mentions using acupuncture to help reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, or using herbal remedies as an alternative to prescription drugs for certain conditions. This isn't about replacing your oncologist or ignoring proven treatments—it's about having more tools in your toolkit.

What Services Are Available Right Now?

The Pointe Centre 2 clinic, located at 1208 Pointe Centre Drive in Chattanooga, already offers primary care and oncology services Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The complementary and integrative health services will roll out in April 2026 during those same hours. The clinic also provides Whole Health coaching and education to help veterans understand how to incorporate these approaches into their daily lives.

Why Should Veterans Care?

For many veterans managing chronic pain, chemotherapy side effects, or stress-related conditions, having evidence-based alternatives available through their VA clinic means they don't have to choose between conventional medicine and complementary approaches—they can use both. The VA's willingness to integrate these therapies suggests growing confidence in their effectiveness when used alongside traditional care.

If you're a veteran in the Tennessee Valley area, it's worth marking your calendar for April 2026 or calling the VA health connect line to learn more about how these services might fit into your health plan.