New RACGP Program Highlights GP Skills in Veterans’ Care
24 Apr 2026
The new stream is part of the RACGP’s Recognition of Extended Skills (RES) program and is designed to make specialist skills in caring for defence members and veterans more visible.
Dr John Norgrove, Senior Medical Advisor at Joint Health Command, said veterans’ healthcare requires specific knowledge not usually covered in standard medical training.
He explained that working with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) involves different systems compared with Medicare, including separate health and support programs.
He also said care must consider a person’s military role, noting that different jobs such as infantry, pilots, and office staff all have different medical needs.
The RES recognition can be used by GPs to demonstrate experience for senior roles, DVA work, or to inform patients about their expertise in veterans’ care.
The program allows GPs with relevant experience—whether in defence services, government agencies, or general practice—to submit evidence for peer review. It is not a formal qualification but a recognition of skills and contribution.
Dr Steph Davis from the DVA said the aim is to improve awareness of GP expertise and strengthen care for veterans.
She said GPs are often the first point of contact for veterans and encouraged doctors to ask patients if they have served.
She also highlighted that Australia has more than 580,000 veterans and many may not disclose their service unless asked.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: newsGP (RACGP)