Beyond a tick box: recognising the armed forces community in healthcare

The identification of the armed forces community (AFC) within health services is essential if they are to receive person-centred, evidence-based care. While health services may routinely ask individuals whether they have served in the armed forces, recognition of the wider AFC, including family members, remains inconsistent. Accurate recognition supports access to specialist services, continuity of care, proactive intervention and improved health outcomes. Veterans experience higher rates of mental health difficulties, comorbidities and health inequalities than the general population, and many may be reluctant to seek support or disclose their AFC status. A whole-community approach that recognises the impact of military service on both families and veterans is needed. Clinical coding, data collection and collaborative working between healthcare and third-sector organisations all have a role in developing culturally informed pathways of care. Improved identification of the AFC could strengthen evidence-based practice, support early intervention and help reduce inequalities experienced by the AFC.