New GP scheme will focus on north-east veterans’ health needs
Veterans and armed forces families could be set to benefit from more tailored healthcare under a new GP scheme focused on the specific health challenges they may face following military service.
The General Practice Armed Forces and Veterans Recognition Scheme is now open to GP surgeries across Scotland following a successful pilot.
The scheme provides easy access training materials for GPs to help increase understanding of veterans’ needs and the range of healthcare support that can be provided.
The specific issues faced by veterans and Armed Forces families will also set out in clinical case studies to help improve understanding among GPs.
Veterans Minister Graeme Dey said: “This is an important step forward in providing more support and I encourage GP surgeries to find out more about this scheme. The pilot has already had a significant impact in helping veterans and armed forces families, and that will only increase as more GPs sign up.
“We are working hard to support our veterans and armed forces community in Scotland. This is especially important at this time of year as we remember and recognise the sacrifices they have made to keep us safe.”
The General Practice Armed Forces and Veterans Recognition Scheme has been developed jointly with NHS Scotland, NHS Highland and Scottish Government.
Participation in the scheme is voluntary and aims to improve awareness of the relevant support services available.
Commenting, Aberdeenshire MSP Gillian Martin said: “The launch of this scheme will see more tailored, local support delivered to veterans and armed forces families in Aberdeenshire.
“The Scottish Government is taking meaningful action to support those who have served our country and continue to do so, along with their families, and this scheme will go a long way to addressing the specific challenges that these individuals face.
“It is also important to recognise the huge sacrifice that so many have made to keep us safe, particularly as we approach Remembrance Sunday.
“I encourage GPs in Aberdeenshire who have not already done so to sign up so that more individuals and their families can benefit from this scheme.”
