Have the Right Conversation With Your GP
Get it on record!
If you're injured during service, don’t wait to report it - even if it seems minor at the time. Having it properly recorded could be the key to getting the support you deserve later on.
It’s also important to have the right conversation with your healthcare provider, not just for your wellbeing, but also for any potential AFCS or WPS compensation claim. Here’s how to make sure your appointment is as clear, productive, and useful as possible.
1. Be clear that it’s service-related
It might sound obvious, but always make sure your GP or specialist knows that your injury or illness is related to your time in the armed forces. This helps frame the discussion and ensures they consider your history in the right context.
Say this clearly, early on, for example: “I believe this condition began while I was serving in the military, and I’d like that reflected in my records.”
This not only helps with diagnosis and treatment - it also ensures your medical records support any future claim you may make.
2. Ask for it to be noted in your medical records
Verbal conversations are useful, but what’s written down matters most when it comes to evidence.
You have the right to ask your GP to record the service connection clearly. Phrasing it directly but politely can help:
“Would you be able to note in my records that this started during my service?”
These records can later support claims under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) or War Pension Scheme (WPS), or simply help demonstrate a timeline of symptoms and treatment.
3. Prepare in advance
Before your appointment, jot down:
- When your symptoms began
- Where you were serving or what you were doing at the time
- Any incidents or exposures you believe may have contributed
- How your symptoms have progressed over time
This preparation makes it easier to explain your history and keeps the conversation focused. If you’re worried you’ll forget something, bring your notes with you or even write a short timeline to hand over.
It may seem like a pain now to keep tabs on everything, but if you make a claim later, you’ll thank yourself for your diligence.
4. Don’t downplay mental health symptoms
It’s common for veterans and service personnel to minimise psychological symptoms, but conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression are just as valid as physical injuries.
Let your doctor know if you’re experiencing:
- Nightmares or flashbacks
- Panic attacks or intrusive thoughts
- Withdrawal from others
- Difficulty sleeping or feeling on edge
Mentioning that these issues may be related to service helps ensure they’re taken seriously and documented properly.
5. Don’t suffer in silence
Whether it’s hearing loss from loud environments, stress-related symptoms, or an old injury you’ve "just lived with," speak up.
Your GP is there to help, not judge. And accurate, full information is the best way to get the right care and build a clear record of your condition over time.
6. Request a copy of your consultation notes (if you need them)
You’re entitled to access your medical records. If you’re planning to make a claim - or just want to check what was recorded - you can ask the practice for a copy of your consultation notes.
This can be done via a Subject Access Request (SAR), though many GP surgeries will happily provide a summary without a formal request.
Keep things organised now, and you’ll make your claim a hundred times easier later.
How we can help
If you're thinking about making a claim for a service-related injury - or you're not sure whether your condition qualifies - our team is here to guide you through the process.
We can help you understand:
- What documents you need
- How to gather the right medical evidence
- What to expect from the claim process
Many people worry they’ve left it too late, or that their injury isn’t serious enough to qualify, but that’s often not the case. Let us help make sure your service is properly recognised.
📞 Ready to talk?
If you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to help.
Contact our team today - we’ll listen, advise, and guide you step by step.