EVESHAM’s MP Nigel Huddleston has lent his support to a national scheme which could see Vale GPs sign up to become ‘veteran friendly’ in order to improve medical care and treatment for former members of the armed services.
The campaign is the brainchild of North Yorkshire GP Dr Mike Brookes, son of Droitwich councillor Bob Brookes, and is backed by NHS England and the Royal College of GPs.
Practices can qualify for veteran friendly status by offering extra support for ex-military personnel who may face additional challenges when they return to civilian life.
The scheme, called the Military Veteran Aware Accreditation, has now been adopted by NHS England and the Royal College of GPs as a nationwide scheme so family doctors can better identify and treat veterans, ensuring they get access to dedicated care where appropriate.
Nigel Huddleston said: “Dr Brookes has highlighted an issue I know is of paramount importance to many veterans and their families. The support required after military service is often complex and we should be doing as much as possible to promote specialist veteran care amongst all healthcare professionals.
“All military personnel who serve the UK are heroes and deserve the support that comes with the incredible challenge that they have willingly undertaken on behalf of their country. I hope that Military Veteran Aware Accreditation is taken up around the country and leads to an even greater system of support and care for former servicemen and women.”
While healthcare for veterans is already prioritised, the NHS wants to improve the way in which veterans are registered at their GP practice and support GPs and practice teams to ensure veterans are fully aware of the dedicated help available to them.
The expansion follows a successful pilot in the West Midlands – initiated by the RCGP Midlands – where 90 GP practices have signed up so far. The nationwide rollout will be a phased approach and it is hoped over the next few years every veteran will receive the best possible NHS care from their GP, regardless of where they live.
“It made me reflect on a potential unmet need for our veterans. I could see how pivotal a GP practice could be at identifying ex-service personnel to help ensure they receive care and treatment that is considerate of their time in the armed forces,” said Dr Brookes.
“It is great to think a conversation with a patient at a GP practice in the Dales could lead to a national project to improve veterans’ health.”
