Full-time members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) who leave the service are to be entitled to free annual health checks for five years under a new program announced by the Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel, Darren Chester.
Mr Chester said the initiative would help optimise the physical and mental health and wellbeing of veterans in the years following transition from the ADF.
“We know that early intervention is important in helping veterans enjoy positive health outcomes and manage their health during transition to civilian life,” Mr Chester said.
“Research such as the Transition and Wellbeing Research Program identifies that current and former ADF members benefit from more support in the first five years post-discharge.”
He urged all veterans to make time for their health check.
“Get to know your GP so they can help you look after your health and wellbeing,” Mr Chester said.
“Your GP can make referrals for additional tests, treatment or assessment by other health professionals and can refer you to relevant Department of Veterans’ Affairs services or programs,” he said.
“DVA will cover the entire cost of your Veteran Health Checks.”
He said ADF members who transitioned before 30 June would continue to be able to gain access to the comprehensive one-off Veteran Health Check (formerly known as the one-off ADF Post-Discharge GP Health Assessment) at any time post-transition.
