GPs who are passionate about caring for veterans and families of veterans can now have their skills formally recognised through the Military Medicine and Veterans’ Health (MMVH) stream in the Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) Recognition of Extended Skills program.
Launched on Anzac Day, the MMVH stream recognises GPs who demonstrate outstanding dedication in supporting the veteran community to manage ongoing and complex health challenges such as chronic pain and mental health conditions.
Recognition of Extended Skills in MMVH is for Fellows of the RACGP who have extensive experience and work:
in a uniformed medical service (regardless of SERCAT)
- as a civilian contractor in Defence clinical contexts
- as a clinician in the Department of Defence, DVA or other government agency
- in independent primary care, caring for veterans
- any combination of the above
DVA acknowledges GPs supporting the veteran community who appreciate the unique experiences that can affect their treatment. When veterans transition from the Australian Defence Force (ADF), they often require extra assistance with the civilian healthcare system where care is no longer organised for them and services have costs. It is useful for GPs to be familiar with the wide range of additional services available to veterans, enabling them to provide the best possible care. These services include DVA programs and special billing arrangements like funded mental health care, the Open Arms counseling service, home help, and support offered by ex-service organisations.
We hope this recognition will continue to encourage interest and expertise in military medicine and veteran health, improving continuity, consistency, and quality of care for veterans and families of veterans.
The Recognition of Extended Skills process formally acknowledges GPs who have advanced expertise in specific areas of general practice, enhancing patient care. It is not a qualification or award but recognition of professional growth. Applicants have their evidence of extended skills assessed by a panel of RACGP peers.
To learn more visit: RACGP - Recognition of Extended Skills