Are You a Veteran?
What does it mean if we record this in your medical record?
If you have served in the UK Armed Forces, we may ask whether you are a veteran and, with your agreement, record this information in your medical record.
Why do we record that you are a veteran?
Knowing that you have served helps our practice understand your background and make sure you are aware of healthcare and support services specifically available to veterans.
Being identified as a veteran does not mean that you will receive different treatment for routine healthcare. It simply helps us recognise when veteran-specific support may be relevant to you.
What are the benefits for you?
Recording your veteran status can help our clinical team:
· Understand your previous Armed Forces service when this is relevant to your care.
· Consider whether a health problem may be connected to your military service.
· Signpost you to NHS services and specialist veteran services where appropriate.
· Help you access veteran-specific mental health and wellbeing support.
· Consider specialist rehabilitation or other services that may be available to veterans.
· Provide more personalised and joined-up care.
What information will be recorded?
We may record that you have served in the UK Armed Forces.
You do not have to provide details of your service unless they are relevant to your healthcare or you wish to discuss them.
You can tell us if there is anything about your service that you do not want to discuss.
Does being recorded as a veteran affect my NHS care?
No.
You will continue to receive NHS care based on your individual health needs. Being recorded as a veteran does not disadvantage you or change your entitlement to NHS services.
It may simply help us identify additional support that could be useful to you.
Will my information be kept confidential?
Yes.
Your veteran status forms part of your confidential medical record and is handled in accordance with the same confidentiality and data protection requirements as your other health information.
It will only be used appropriately as part of your healthcare and practice processes.
Do I have to tell the practice?
No.
You are not required to disclose your veteran status. If you choose to tell us, we can record it so that our team can consider veteran-specific support when appropriate.
If you change your mind or have questions about how this information is recorded, please speak to a member of the practice team.
You may be entitled to additional support
There are NHS and charitable services specifically designed to support veterans and their families. Your GP or another member of the practice team can help you find out what support may be available.
Telling us that you are a veteran can help us recognise your needs and connect you with the right support. If you have served in the UK Armed Forces, please let a member of the practice team know when you are visiting or by completing an Admin form here
Newbury Street Practice is committed to providing inclusive, person-centred care for veterans and their families.
