Operation Thrive to train GPs in veteran health

More than 10,000 current and ex-serving members across the Territory are expected to benefit from the initiative.

More than thirty general practitioners from across the Territory will undergo veteran-specific training in the government’s effort to support more than 10,000 current and ex-serving veterans across the Territory.

On Wednesday, the government announced Operation Thrive - the new multifaceted action plan focused on enhancing support for veterans and their families.

The first phase of the plan will involve Territory doctors receiving new training that targets veteran health and wellbeing.

32 GPs from across the Territory have elected to take part in the unique course which will be led by Dr Kerry Summerscales, herself a veteran.

Dr Summerscales said the course would “empower” GPs in dealing with veteran wellbeing.

“Through Veteran Health education, we empower GP Specialists to understand the unique challenges, health concerns, and experiences of our brave veterans, while enabling them to navigate the requirements of the Department of Veterans Affairs,” she said.

“This training not only bridges the gap between the worlds of Defence, Veterans and healthcare but, also fosters a stronger sense of duty — one that extends beyond the battlefield to the wellbeing of our heroes.”

Operation Thrive will also include the peer led suicide prevention campaign, Check Your Mates, and a Cor Infinitus Memorial which will be rolled out over the coming months.

Minister for Veterans Affairs Brent Potter said the government “backs its veterans”.

“We will continue to work to ensure those leaving the ADF, who have served for our country, can transition as smoothly as possible into civilian life,” he said.

“This is why programs like Operation Thrive are so important, and why having doctors trained in specific veterans’ health needs is even more important.”

Mr Potter, a veteran himself, said he would draw upon his own transition experience to his portfolio’s advantage.

“Every challenge (veterans have) I can, if I haven’t had it myself, understand it and I can appreciate the position – I think (Operation Thrive) is a good step in the right way,” Mr Potter said.

“There’s about three or four (veteran speciality doctors) and every veteran is going to them and so they’re getting the same burn out, so it’s a lived experience in the Top End.”

Originally published as Operation Thrive to train GPs in veteran health