Veterans face unique physical and mental health challenges due to their exposure to combat and hazardous materials. These experiences can result in physical injuries and psychological conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), affecting not only the veterans and active service members but also their families. To help ensure veterans receive the support they need, we conducted a survey to uncover existing gaps in the health care system. The insights gathered will guide our collaboration with relevant organisations to improve health outcomes.
Summary
Thank you to everyone who took part in the MySay Veterans’ Health Survey in April 2025 to better understand what is working well, and what can be improved in the ACT primary health care system.
The feedback received highlighted important challenges faced by veterans and offered meaningful recommendations to help enhance their health outcomes.
We had 55 people take part in our survey. The vast majority were veterans, with a few currently serving in the military and a small number who were family members of either group. Most of our respondents were older adults— with nearly 7 in 10 aged 61 or above.
Notably, 36% of participants expressed concerns about future medical care, and while everyone reported visiting a general practice (GP) in the past year, nearly half found access to health care difficult or very difficult. Only around one third found access easy or very easy.
Participants highlighted several major obstacles to accessing care. Many felt that services tailored specifically for veterans were lacking, and that overall availability of support was limited. Cost was also a significant concern for a notable portion of respondents.While majority of respondents have a DVA card, many experience issues with accessibility and continuity of care, with around half of them reporting difficulties finding GPs who accept their DVA card (mainly gold and white cards). Just over half of respondents were unaware of existing programs or services designed specifically for veterans in the ACT, pointing to a need for improved communication about available services.
Mental health remains a critical area of concern with 16% of respondents saying they do not feel comfortable discussing mental health concerns with their GPs,and 13% saying that they only sometimes feel comfortable discussing this. While some of the most common health services accessed by respondents were psychologists and psychiatrists and other mental health care services, a significant number of respondents said they need better mental health support. This includes more available services, more appropriate diagnosis, better continuity of care and comprehensive plans to improve ongoing health management.
Positive health care experiences were often linked to health professionals who understood veteran needs, particularly those with a service background themselves. This led to many suggesting the need for a veteran-specific clinic and a centralised resource that includes all those health services and supports that can be accessed by veterans and their families. In addition, there were suggestions to have more activities and safe spaces where they can connect with other veterans and members of the community.
Respondents also emphasised the importance of comprehensive care that includes family support and more coordinated care. Many participants also advocated for having a workforce that is better trained to effectively and efficiently provide care to veterans and families.
What CHN will do with this information
CHN will share the survey findings with the Department of Veteran Affairs and health organisations in the ACT that may help inform policies and procedures that improve health outcomes for our veterans.CHN will also highlight the Coordinated Veterans Care program in communications and will host a general practice education event later in 2025.
