Veterans' Experiences with COVID-19 and How Providers Can Shape Care and Perception with Empathy.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic challenged healthcare systems like the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to pivot to new models of care and keep up with rapidly evolving practice and treatment guidelines. These challenges were amplified by the context of a polarized society and widespread mistrust of government and traditional media communication.

Objective: We sought to better understand experiences with COVID-specific care and the role of patient-provider interactions.