“Treat us Like Human Beings”: Messages and Recommendations to U.S. Policymakers and Veterans Health Administration Providers from a Qualitative Inquiry Into the Health Experiences of Gulf War Veterans With Gulf War Illness

Gulf War Illness (GWI) affects many U.S. Veterans of the 1990-1991 Persian Gulf War (GWVs), yet recognition of the condition and effective treatments remain limited. GWVs with GWI describe feeling dismissed by institutions tasked with their benefits and healthcare, fueling mistrust and disengagement. This qualitative study explored the messages GWVs with GWI wished to convey to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) providers and U.S. policymakers. We conducted semi-structured interviews (2019–2022) with a national sample of 39 GWVs with GWI. Veterans emphasized persistent challenges in transitioning to VA care, navigating complex disability claims, and obtaining recognition of GWI as a chronic, service-connected illness. Participants perceived inequities in recognition, benefits, and other support compared to other service eras, and mistrust in compensation and pension processes. Finally, central to these GWI narratives was a desire to be heard, acknowledged, and validated. These findings underscore the importance of Veteran-informed policies, provider education, and empathetic and cooperative dialogue in restoring trust and improving care for GWI.