In June 1997 the NHS published guidelines relating to the priority treatment of war pensioners, and this was updated in December 2007. From 1st January 2008, all service veterans should be receiving priority access to NHS care for any condition which is likely to relate to their military service. This is also subject to fair treatment of all other patients based on clinical needs.

The British Government defines a veteran as: “Anyone who has served for at least one day in the Armed Forces (Regular or Reserve), as well as Merchant Navy seafarers and fishermen who have served in a vessel that was operated to facilitate military operations by the Armed Forces.” There are an estimated 40,000 veterans in Norfolk (Healthwatch Norfolk, 2014).

Letting us know you are a Military Veteran

You can let us know you are a military veteran by completing a Military Veteran form, or you can collect one from the surgery.

Please give the form in to reception or at your next consultation with the GP or nurse.

We will record this in your patient notes so we can let the hospital know if you need a referral.