Engaging with your health professionals

The Government has extended telehealth measures to all Australians. Veterans and their families can access health services from their homes via video link or telephone.
 

These telehealth services include access to GPs, medical specialists, allied health and mental health professionals. Those who need to visit their doctor face-to-face can continue to do so.

From 20 July 2020, patients (including veterans) can only access government-funded GP services via telehealth from a GP or general practice with whom they have an existing and continuous relationship — defined as having had a face-to-face consultation with the GP themselves, or a GP in the same practice, during the previous 12 months.

DVA has also extended access to telehealth arrangements for rehabilitation and mental health day programs through private hospitals.

As always, contact your GP in the first instance, for your health service needs, and remember — call first.

If your GP recommends that you need to visit for an appointment, transport is available to help you access treatment. To make a booking call Transport Bookings on 1800 550 455.

Community nursing program

If you currently receive DVA-funded community nursing services, your provider can develop an individual pandemic plan with you and your family to help you stay well during the pandemic.

The plan will help you prepare for how to continue to have your essential needs met during the pandemic.

You can ask your provider to develop this plan with you if they do not approach you first.

Providers should give you a copy of the plan for you, your family or people providing support to refer to.

For more information on DVA’s Community Nursing program, visit the Community nursing page.

Medicine delivery

Vulnerable people, including eligible veterans, can order their Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS) prescriptions remotely, and have their medicines home delivered, once a month, to reduce their potential exposure to COVID-19.

You can visit the Department of Health website for information on e-prescribing and home medicine services, or contact your local pharmacy.