LOWER LIMB ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY FOR VETERANS – or  – INFANTEER KNEES AND HIPS

HHQ received this very informative email from Andy MacLean.

“Dear Secretary
I have recently undergone a total knee replacement through a veterans service.  I was unable to get treatment through my own local health authority because I was on the wrong side of 55, this apparently is the case nationally and a considerable embarrassment because veterans are going without treatment.    I am forwarding this information in the hope you may share it with any ex borderers who may be experiencing similar difficulties.  Lt Col Meyers is keen to get the word out there so feel free to pass this information to other regimental associations.

The clinic is held every 2 weeks and is run by Lt Col Meyers at the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, Oswestry, Shropshire.  The service provides a hip or knee arthritis assessment and then if appropriate a joint replacement.  The turnaround from point of assessment to surgery is just over 6 weeks compared to the NHS which may be anything up to 6 months.

All that is required is a referral from your GP with a copy of your service record or your service number and details of your service.  Providing the referee doesn’t mind a few days away from home this is an excellent service and a real advantage for veterans.  Lt Col Meyers did more for me in 4 days than my local health care provider did in 2 years.  Below is the information required to access this service.

Veterans Hip & Knee surgery Service
The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Oswestry
Shropshire
SY10 7AG
Contact information:
rebecca.ann.jones@rjah.nhs.uk
FAX: 01691 404067
Tel: 01691 404344

GP notes will need to be annotated with one of the NHS issued codes for military veterans.
Military medical codes:
13J1. Military veteran
13JY. History relating to Military Service
13qo. History relating to Army Service
13q1. History relating to RN Service
13q2. History relating to RAF Service
13q3. Served in the Armed Forces

Yours Sincerely
Andy Maclean (Pte)”