Veteran Health

Veteran Friendly Practice

    This means that you can expect the following from our practice:

  1. You can make an appointment to see our clinical lead for veteran’s health (Dr Jake Matthews Aug 2023 – Feb 2025). Dr Matthews has a comprehensive understanding of the Armed Forces, health conditions linked to service, and the dedicated support you can access.
  2. We will ask all patients if they have served in the UK Armed Forces (as a regular or reservist). If you have, we will note this in your medical record, with your permission.
  3. We will ask you to share details of your time in service to help us to assess the best support and treatment for you.
  4. We will let you know what choices are available for your care and treatment and help you to make informed decisions on what to do.
  5. Where appropriate and with your consent, we can refer you to dedicated veterans health services.
  6. If you need to be seen by another service, we will let them know you’re a veteran and make sure they have an understanding of your health and wellbeing needs, so you don’t have to keep repeating your ‘personal story’
  7. We can give advice and support to your loved ones who may be affected by your health conditions
  8. We will investigate any issues and complaints that you may have about your care. If you have any concerns about the services we offer, please speak to one of the practice team.

What is the Armed Forces Covenant?

The NHS has a duty to deliver on a number of health commitments, which are set out in the Armed Forces Covenant as follows:

  1. The Armed Forces community should enjoy the same standard of, and access to healthcare as that received by any other UK citizen in the area they live.
  2. Family members should retain their place on any NHS waiting list, if moved around the UK due to the service person being posted.
  3. Veterans should receive priority treatment for a condition which relates to their service, subject to clinical need.
  4. Those injured in service should be cared for in a way that reflects the nation’s moral obligation to them, by healthcare professionals who have an understanding of the Armed Forces culture.

This is reflected in principle four of the NHS Constitution, which states ‘the NHS will ensure that in line with the Armed Forces Covenant, those in the Armed Forces, reservists, their families and veterans are not disadvantaged in accessing health services in the area they reside’.

F.A.Q

Tips

Accreditation

Patient Charter