Has your patient served in the defence forces? The Veterans’ Health Check can help you to help them stay well
Former members of the Australian Defence Force are most at risk of mental and physical health issues in the early years after they move into civilian life. That’s why the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) fully funds the Veterans’ Health Check program, which provides a comprehensive health assessment once a year for five years, once they’ve transitioned from the military. We have created resources to make it easy for busy GPs to undertake this annual assessment and seek payment for their time.
DVA’s custom Veterans’ Health Check assessment tool helps you check for health conditions that are common to veterans. There are two ways to access it:
- Search 'ADF post-discharge GP Health Assessment' in Best Practice or Medical Director, or
- Download the online form
The Veterans’ HealthPathways guides GPs step by step through making this assessment during their consultation with their patient. If you don’t already have access enquire with your local Primary Health Network.
To claim for payment, GPs should use DVA item numbers MT701–MT707.
DVA’s quick claiming guide provides an easy to follow breakdown of fees and item numbers for the Veterans’ Health Check and other DVA programs.
Visit the Veteran Health Checks program page for more information.
In addition we have:
- information on our website to guide providers when supporting veterans in transition
- the VETs HeLP platform, which provides health professionals with easy access to a range of evidence-based educational resources crucial for delivering high-quality care to veterans and their families. This includes CPD accredited resources.
Find our full suite of quick guides and tools to assist you in understanding veterans’ needs and supporting their health and wellbeing; and remember to ask your patient if they’ve served in the ADF.