As Figure 9 illustrates, there is a lack of knowledge and understanding about this particular aspect of the Armed Forces Covenant. Those who have accessed NHS services told us of inconsistencies in the way that different Primary Care Trusts (PCT) acknowledge and support military families, even when the NHS Covenant commitments are


staff. We wait to see whether any noticeable changes or improvements occur


the NHS Commissioning Board and Clinical Commissioning Groups have taken over responsibility for providing primary and secondary healthcare and community services to many military families.


highlighted to medical now that


care after a posting to a unit in a different PCT area. This contravenes one of the commitments made to Service families in the Covenant. Of greater concern, were the 5% who had been told they could not have the treatment they required because the new PCT would, or could, not provide it.


there is also a lack of


While 44% of participants felt access to a local NHS medical centre or GP surgery was good, 18% believed it was poor, with many stating that the location of their SFA or Unit was a factor. Furthermore, 9% of voters told us they had been placed at the bottom of a waiting list when looking to continuing medical


knowledge and understanding


The issue of access to NHS dentists is one that affects families across the country, regardless of whether they are part of the military community or not. However, when the additional impact of the mobile aspect of Service life is considered, it is apparent that non-serving family members still have problems. Figure 10 highlights that, four years


on, despite the commitments made under the previous Government, in their Service Personnel Command Paper, and in the Armed Forces Covenant, military families still face the same challenges.


Have you seen an improvement in access to NHS dentists in the last 4 years?


44%


Figure 10 t


27% 20%


9% Yes


No


I’m not sure


Does not apply, I am entitled


to use Service dental facilities


www.raf-ff.org.uk


23


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