GPs Reminded of New Veterans’ Health Resources and Upcoming CPD Sessions
03 Sep 2026
The latest information also includes opportunities for GPs to build their skills through upcoming CPD-approved education sessions covering children’s health and air pollution, as well as medical abortion care.
Key DVA updates for healthcare providers
Several updates are available for health professionals working with veterans.
The DVA is seeking feedback on the future design of allied health arrangements for Veteran Card holders. Veterans, their families, healthcare providers, peak bodies and ex-service organisations can contribute to the consultation.
New guidance is also available for clinicians prescribing medicinal cannabis to veterans experiencing chronic non-cancer pain.
Healthcare providers are also being reminded that current Veteran Cards should continue to be accepted. A refreshed card mailout is underway and is expected to be completed by October, including cases where an existing card appears to have expired.
The DVA is continuing work to make the compensation process easier for treating health professionals by providing clearer information about their role and keeping guidance and assessment report rates up to date.
DVA medical, dental and allied health fees increased by 2.6% from 1 July. Services provided from that date are paid using the new rates, even when claims were submitted using an earlier fee schedule.
GPs and psychiatrists can also access mental health incentives designed to support longer consultations and more coordinated, ongoing care for veteran patients.
Upcoming CPD education
Air pollution and children’s health
Tuesday, 8 September | 7.30pm–8.30pm AEST
CPD: 1 EA hour
This webinar will examine how indoor and outdoor air pollution can affect respiratory health, childhood health and the climate.
Topics will include exposure from traffic, bushfire smoke, gas appliances, wood heaters and other household sources. The session will also cover practical ways clinicians can help patients reduce exposure and consider more environmentally sustainable respiratory care, including lower-carbon inhaler prescribing.
Medical abortion in general practice
Monday, 28 September | 7pm–8pm AEST
CPD: 1 EA hour
This practical session will focus on how GPs can support patients considering early medical abortion.
The program will cover counselling, patient selection, contraindications, managing complications and referral options. It will also address post-abortion contraception, reproductive coercion, mental health, models of care and the Victorian legal requirements surrounding conscientious objection.
The session will be presented by Dr Sara Whitburn and Dr Karen Freilich.
GPs Reminded of New Veterans’ Health Resources and Upcoming CPD Sessions
Source: Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)