Thad Abrams

Dr. Thad Abrams is a Clinical Professor of Internal Medicine-General Internal Medicine and Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine. He holds academic appointments in both departments, emphasizing dual expertise in internal medicine and mental health. His affiliations include the Iowa City VA Medical Center, where he contributes to clinical care and research focused on veteran populations.

Dr. Abrams earned his MD from the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine and an MS in Clinical Investigation from the University of Iowa College of Public Health. His clinical training includes residencies in Internal Medicine-Psychiatry and fellowships in Quality Scholars (VA Medical Center) and General Internal Medicine.

His research focuses on veterans' healthcare needs, particularly PTSD management, chronic pain interventions, behavioral health integration, and healthcare quality improvement. He leads trials like COCOV (chiropractic care for veterans with low back pain) and VERDICT (chiropractic dosage trials). His work addresses rural healthcare access, veteran-specific screening protocols, and the impact of comorbidities like PTSD on long-term health outcomes.

Dr. Abrams' publications span 2006–2025, with recent emphasis on (1) innovative treatments for PTSD and alcohol withdrawal, (2) comparative effectiveness of service dogs vs. emotional support animals, and (3) optimizing care for underserved veteran populations. He collaborates across disciplines to bridge clinical practice and research, aiming to improve patient-centered outcomes through pragmatic trials and policy-driven solutions.

His grants include VA-funded research projects evaluating complementary therapies and healthcare system interventions. He actively participates in institutional quality improvement initiatives, such as the Veterans Affairs shift-change handoff project.