1. Why should a veteran be referred to the MAP?
Some GPs and other Health Professionals may have difficulty understanding the needs of veterans who believe they are ill as a result of operational service. Doctors are encouraged to refer to the MAP any patients who are concerned that their mental health may have suffered as a result of their service and who fulfil the criteria for being seen. The MAP is staffed by a Consultant Psychiatrist who has full access to the wide range of military experience and knowledge of military health matters within the Ministry of Defence. Satisfaction surveys indicate that the service provided by the Programme is well regarded by patients.
2. Can I obtain advice on-line or over the phone?
Yes. The MAP is happy to provide advice to individuals, their families and health professionals. Please contact us on:
3. What follow-up action is taken?
The MAP doctor provides a report for the patient, referring GP and/or Specialist. The report includes the diagnoses made, recommendations for treatment and, where possible, reassurance.
The MAP ask doctors to co-operate in taking forward treatment recommendations and in responding to any enquiries about a patient's progress. Six months after assessment, each patient is contacted and encouraged to update the MAP as to their condition and situation.
4. Why does the MAP not provide treatment?
The MAP is unable to provide treatment. Its role is to assess patients from across the UK and recommend appropriate treatment and management. Implementation and follow-up is via the NHS and will be for the individual’s own GP to organise.
5. Why not provide mental health treatment as well as assessment to help the NHS?
A principal concern has been that the mental health problems of veterans are sometimes not well understood throughout the NHS. The MAP can address this requirement. Individual GPs can refer cases whose background they do not understand or where the particular risks arising from a patient’s military background are unclear. There will be a number of treatment options. Most of which will, of necessity, be provided locally.
6. How is a patient referred to the MAP?
Veterans who have left service and who have concerns about their health and possible links to service should ask their GP, Mental Health Professional or Prison Medical Officer to refer them. To ensure the best care, the patients’ GPs must be involved. Referral can be made by other health professionals – but GPs will always become involved.
All individuals need to give consent to access his/her medical records to ensure a proper assessment. Those without a GP are encouraged to contact the MAP to discuss their situation.
7. Does the MAP see everyone referred?
Not necessarily. All cases are considered and patients will be advised if there is little or nothing to be gained from their attendance at the MAP.
8. Can Veterans in Prison be seen?
Yes. Initial advice can be sought from the MAP and Prison Medical Officers are encouraged to contact the MAP. A prison assessment visit can be organised after appropriate referral.
9. Is there a long waiting list?
No. An appointment is normally agreed with the patient about 6-8 weeks after receiving the referral. This allows time in order to ensure civilian and military medical records have been examined prior to assessment. The aim is that all patients referred to the MAP will be sent an appointment letter within 5 working days.
10. What is the cost for the patient?
The MOD will organise and meet the cost of the patient's return travel to the MAP from within the UK, accommodation costs and the cost of breakfast and an evening meal at a hotel (if the length of the journey precludes the possibility of a return trip within a single day). Where appropriate, MOD will also organise and meet the costs of a patient’s partner or carers. The examination and clinical tests will be provided free of charge.
11. Does the MAP provide Medico-Legal Reports?
The MAP does not provide medico-legal reports and does not take referrals from solicitors. The patient is however naturally entitled to do what he/she wishes with their assessment.
12. Why have MOD launched a special programme of support for Reservists at Chilwell?
In 2003 MOD commissioned research by the King’s Centre for Military Health Research into the health of military personnel who were deployed to Operation TELIC. This report showed that in the 2003 deployment there was no significant increase in ill health of regular forces compared to those that did not deploy. However, the report did show that a higher proportion of Reservists who did deploy displayed symptoms of common mental health problems and PTSD compared to regulars, and reservists who did not deploy. However, in absolute terms these numbers are small.