NHS hospital trusts supporting veterans with physical health problems
The Veterans Trauma Network (VTN) provides specialist care and support for veterans who have physical health problems because of their time in the UK Armed Forces.
The VTN is a network of 18 hospitals across England, some of which include major trauma centres, that is supported by a team of consultants, surgeons and NHS staff who have a military background or understanding of the Armed Forces.
These specialists work closely with:
- GP practices
- specialist NHS services
- military and non-military charities and organisations.
Steve White is an Army Veteran who explains how military surgeons from the VTN supported him.
“I served for four years in the Royal Green Jackets (Army) and was medically discharged following a serious leg and knee injury. I had countless operations to salvage my leg which ultimately failed, resulting in an above knee amputation.
After the amputation, I suffered from nerve pain due to neuroma, I had this surgically addressed in 2014 and while initially it was successful, the condition returned, resulting in ever increasing levels of various medications and gradual reductions in my mobility.
Through my membership of the military charity Blesma, I was referred to the VTN. I was seen at a VTN hospital by a specialist surgeon with a military background. I have since had surgery using a new technique, undertaken by three military surgeons working within the NHS.
I experienced an immediate improvement in pain, and I am now free of all medications with my mobility much improved.
If you are experiencing problems with your physical health, because of your time in the Armed Forces, ask your GP about the VTN and find out how it could support you.”
The VTN can support you regardless of when your service-related physical health problem first appeared and no matter when you left the UK Armed Forces.
The VTN can also help families and carers of veterans using the VTN access appropriate support services.
Access to the VTN is via GP referral only. Your GP can refer you by emailing england.veteranstraumanetwork@nhs.net
A veteran is anyone who has served for at least one day in the UK Armed Forces (regular or reservist).
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