These practices have undergone training to understand the unique challenges and health needs that veterans may face, and are committed to offering the highest level of care and support.
Our integrated care system has achieved the NHS England and Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) target of having at least one accredited veteran friendly GP practice in each of our primary care networks (PCNs) across Hertfordshire and west Essex.
This national accreditation drive recognises the vital role GP practices play in identifying veteran’s and their families and meeting specialist needs of veterans and the Armed Forces community, which includes serving personnel, regulars and reserves, veterans, and their families. The scheme supports practices in delivering the best possible care and treatment for patients who have served in the armed forces.
A veteran friendly accredited GP practice will ask patients registering with a surgery if they or anyone in their immediate family has ever served in His Majesty’s Armed Forces. An accredited practice will also have a clinical lead for veterans who will undertake dedicated training, and stay up to date with latest research and development. These individuals will work alongside and advise other members of staff at the practice, sharing their expertise. They will direct veterans and their families to local services in their area.
Following last Saturday’s Armed Forces Day, commemorating the service of all those in the Armed Forces, we’re pleased to be able to demonstrate that all PCNs in Hertfordshire and west Essex are ensuring support for their veterans and families and recognising the health needs of this significant group.
We now have 67 accredited GP practices across our area covering 20,729 known veterans. The number of people supported increases to 29,642 when dependents and families are included.
During 2024/25 we look forward to working with the remaining 64 GP practices – covering an additional 15,326 veterans and their 6,590 dependents – to support them in achieving veteran friendly status. Achieving accreditation for every practice will demonstrate our support for all veterans, their dependents and families who have decided to settle in Hertfordshire and west Essex following their service.
Visit our website for more information on support for veterans.