February 2, 2015
Veterans living in the South Burnett will now have access to faster treatment for a range of disorders following the Federal Government’s decision to unlink help for some conditions from war service.
“Under the new arrangements, veterans who are diagnosed by a GP or psychologist with conditions such as PTSD, depression and anxiety, will be able to access free treatment programs,” Member for Wide Bay and Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss said.
“This assistance will be provided without any need to prove a link between their service and their condition.
“Up until now, access to non-liability health care was limited to veterans who had a condition diagnosed by a psychiatrist.
“The government recognises that the advice of specialists, such as psychiatrists, is often not readily available in regional areas.
“These new arrangements reflect the difficulties that come with living in regional areas, and will help to ensure that local veterans can access these services quickly and locally, without having to obtain a referral to a psychiatrist.
“The government also recognises that early diagnosis and treatment of these conditions greatly improves the health of affected veterans and this is reflected in these new, more accessible arrangements.”
