Registering with an NHS GP after service
What to bring, what to tell them about your service, and how to access your military medical records.
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Tell the GP you served
Under the Armed Forces Covenant, veterans are entitled to priority NHS treatment for any condition that's likely to be related to service — as long as that doesn't unfairly bump someone with a more urgent clinical need.
But priority only works if the GP knows. Tell them. Write "Veteran" on the registration form. Ask for the Veteran-Friendly GP scheme quality mark — many practices are accredited.
Getting your military medical records
Your service medical records are held by Veterans UK. You can request them by completing the SAR (Subject Access Request) form on gov.uk/government/organisations/veterans-uk. It usually takes 4–8 weeks.
What to mention to the GP
- Operational tours and any exposures (loud noise, blast, dust, fuel, chemical).
- Mental health — even if you think it's "managed".
- Hearing tests — service-related hearing loss is common and treatable.
- Joint problems — especially knees, back, shoulders.
Where to go next
If your GP isn't familiar with veteran-specific services, we can help you navigate referrals into Op COURAGE, audiology, and physiotherapy. Get help →
Still need help?
Speak to a trained advisor. Free, confidential, and judgement-free — for anyone who has served, is serving, or is family of someone who has.