Veteran Health Checks
Transitioning to civilian life can be a busy and challenging time for veterans and their families. There are many competing priorities to sort out – from planning a move, finding a new home, new schools for kids, and a new job. Your health can often be forgotten.
Looking after your health is important during times of change. When you are forming a relationship with a new civilian GP, tell them you have served in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and ask them about the Annual Veteran Health Check.
The Annual Veteran Health Check is specifically designed for veterans and can be accessed through your community or family GP. It can assist you and your GP to identify and support the onset of physical and mental health conditions that are common in the years following transition, and organise for early and targeted referrals.
Your GP may also make referrals for additional tests, treatment or assessment by other health professionals, and can refer you to relevant DVA services or programs. You will need your DVA Veteran Card to access annual Veteran Health Checks.
All ADF members who transitioned on or after 1 July 2019, and served at least one day’s continuous full-time service, can now access a comprehensive fully-funded health assessment from their GP each year, for the first five years following transition.
To find out more, including how to apply for your DVA Health Card, please visit dva.gov.au/health-and-wellbeing.
If you transitioned from the ADF prior to 1 July 2019, you will still be able to access a comprehensive One-Off Veteran Health Check from your GP at any time after you transition. You can use your Medicare card to claim a Medicare benefit for the One-off Veterans’ Health Check
Watch our Youtube video to learn more about Veteran Health Checks.
For more information on the Veteran Health Check, please visit: dva.gov.au/veteranhealthcheck.
