The city's RSL sub-branch has welcomed a move from the federal government to prolong two programs aimed at supporting veterans' health and well-being.
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The federal government have announced a boost of $17.3 million to a pair of pilot programs - the Provisional Access to Medical Treatment (PAMT) program and the Well-being and Support program - and an increase in claims processing capacity.
The PAMT program allows medical treatment to be delivered to veterans for one of 20 common conditions while their initial liability claim is still being considered while the well-being and support program seeks to provide face-to-face case management for 'highly vulnerable' veterans who are either transitioning into civilian life after their service, or those who have complex care needs.
The funding will see the pilot programs continue for an additional 12 months.
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Griffith RSL Sub-Branch senior vice president Terry Walsh said the sub-branch views the additional funding as "most welcome," with any improvement in helping veterans access medical care or support a step in the right direction.
"We agree that these programs are necessary and need to be funded to the point where no veteran should have to wait for extended periods of time for either treatment or to have claims processed," Mr Walsh said.
"Treatment for any medical issue should not have to wait while the paperwork is being done and therefore this funding boost is most welcome.
"The funding for the Wellbeing and Support Program is also very welcome as this program has been successful during the pilot period and hopefully will continue to be available to veterans who require these services in the future."
Mr Walsh also highlighted the response of the government in looking to improve time-frames for claims processing as a vital inclusion.
"The response in regards to the funding specifically for improving time-frames for claims processing is something almost every veteran would say is essential," Mr Walsh said.
"Any improvement in this regard will be well received by all in the veteran community."
Federal veterans' affairs minister Darren Chester said the funding boost aims to continue supporting the health needs of the nation's veterans.
"This program [PAMT] has benefited more than 14,000 veterans by providing early medical treatment while they wait for the outcome of their claim, with more than 75 per cent of veterans ultimately having their claims accepted," Mr Chester said.
"By extending this program for a further 12 months it will continue to support veterans to achieve better health outcomes.
"This funding is vital to ensure we can process claims in an appropriate time-frame for our veterans and their families."