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Murrumbidgee veterans have been invited to complete a survey to help the regional health network better understand their specific needs and experiences. Photo: Region.
Veterans across the region are encouraged to complete a quick, confidential health survey for the Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN).
The MPHN is seeking feedback on the specific health needs of veterans, including current, reserve and former personnel, to incorporate into its updated Health Needs Assessment (HNA) for the Murrumbidgee.
MPHN senior manager of population health planning and data Dr Jason Bennie said it was critical for the health network to understand the veteran community’s specific health needs.
“Across the Murrumbidgee, and particularly in Wagga Wagga, we have a higher representation of veterans than the state and national average,” Dr Bennie said.
“We want to ensure we’re capturing feedback from our veterans when planning for future health programs and initiatives for this community.
“While we’re encouraging veterans to complete the survey, we’re happy for all community members to share their views and experiences, and help guide positive improvements for health and wellbeing in the Murrumbidgee region,” he said.
Local veteran Richard Salcole said veterans often face complex health issues both during and after their service.
Mr Salcole dedicated 28 years of his life to the Royal Australian Air Force, two years in the Australian Army Reserve, and has spent time supporting other veterans.
“Veterans experience things most civilians don’t see,” Mr Salcole explained.
“We often move around a lot, spend a great deal of time away from our loved ones, and can be exposed to some pretty confronting situations.”
“By sharing our opinions and ideas with services like the Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network, we can help ensure our local health services are better able to support us and our families to live healthy, happy lives,” Mr Salcole added.
Veterans and community members can complete the HNA Community Feedback surveys at Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network.
The HNA community survey has 17 questions and takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete.
The survey answers are confidential and anonymous.