Primary healthcare services are the first point of contact with the healthcare system and includes GPs, pharmacists and dentists
Medical Care
As a member of the Armed Forces, you get free primary healthcare provided by the MOD
Eligibility check:
What’s it for?
In the UK, primary healthcare is provided to uniformed Service personnel by the Defence Medical Services (DMS).
Care for dependants is usually provided by the NHS, except in some cases where they might be treated in a DMS primary care facility.
For Service personnel assigned overseas, medical care is provided to all resident military personnel and their entitled dependants.
For members of the Reserves undertaking military activity, medical support is provided up to the point where the individual is fit to be discharged to the care of their own GP. Unless sustained while mobilised for operations, long-term health problems experienced by Reserve personnel are dealt with by the NHS.
Armed Forces secondary healthcare is provided by the NHS in the UK and by other providers overseas.
Secondary healthcare is the specialist treatment you receive when you have a condition that a primary care professional such as a GP cannot resolve. Secondary care services are usually based in a hospital or clinic.
Veterans’ healthcare is provided by the NHS in the UK and other providers overseas.
What do I get?
You’ll receive medical care of a standard equivalent to that enjoyed by UK civilians. It is provided free of charge and there is no personal contribution.
The MOD also meets the cost of prescriptions for serving personnel.
How do I claim?
If you require medical advice or treatment this is available from Defence Primary Healthcare, through a network of medical facilities in the UK and overseas.
Need more information?
NHS Armed Forces choices
Visit the NHS Armed Forces healthcare website
Armed Forces Covenant
Read about the Armed Forces Covenant