As ANZAC day approaches I find myself reflecting on my time in uniform. I served as a full time Medical Officer in the Royal Australian Navy from 2007 -2016 before discharging to the Naval Reserves. During this time I looked after the health of ADF members both at home, on exercise and on operational deployments.
Many people do not realise that the Australian Defence Force operates its own health system, separate from Medicare and the state health systems. This is provided to members as a condition of service. Whilst in uniform, ADF members have access to high quality, comprehensive health care without any cost.
Upon discharge, this care must be handed over to the civilian system. At times this process can be complicated and daunting as there may have been injuries incurred as a result of the members service. These injuries, both physical and mental, are likely to have ongoing care requirements. If this is the case, the responsibility for funding care falls to the Federal Government through the Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA).
DVA is a complex bureaucracy and many veterans, and doctors, for that matter find it a confusing system. I am passionate about providing holistic care for our veterans and I am fortunate to have dealt with this bureaucracy as a uniformed Navy doctor and as a family GP. I also find helping veterans navigate the DVA claims process a rewarding part of my practice. There is a huge amount of information available for veterans looking to submit claims on the DVA website:
https://www.dva.gov.au/about-dva/factsheets/dva-factsheets-keyword.
Another great resource is to contact the RSLWA who provide an advocacy assistance program:
https://www.rslwa.org.au/find-support/assistance/advocacy-assistance/
ANZAC day means different things to each veteran. For most it is usually a chance to catch up with old mates for a beer and reminisce or to spend some time reflecting on a rewarding but challenging job. For some it can be a hard time of year, bringing back memories of tough times.
Traditionally most people are able to mark the day by attending a local dawn service or march to pay their respects. With these services cancelled for the first time since 1919, we join the RSL in encouraging everyone to stay at home.
There are still many ways you can show your respects. We have listed just a few below:
Driveway at Dawn: stand at the end of your driveway from 5.55am on Saturday 25th April. You can download the ANZAC DAY 2020 app to your phone, that will feature a virtual candle and synchronized playing of The Last Post at precisely 6am.
Join in at home: Tune into ABC Radio from 5.55am or go to the RSL WA website to follow their special commemorative service from 6.30am
Have a chat: If a mate or family member is a veteran, show your support by giving them call this year. Have a chat and maybe an ANZAC biscuit or two!
All veterans have access to 24 hour help through ‘Open Arms’ – Veterans and Families counselling service. This provides free access to counselling, including 24 hour crisis counselling, for veterans and their families.
This article has been written by Dr Phil Marmion
