Navigating a Medical Discharge from the Military: What You Need to Know
What to Do When Medically Discharged from the Military
For many active military personnel, the possibility of a medical discharge can be uncertain. The process is often unfamiliar, complex, and involves a lot of paperwork, and is usually influenced by changing health needs. At a time when clarity is most important, the system can feel anything but straightforward.
At Veterans Welfare Group, we’ve supported individuals navigating this exact situation — helping them prepare, ask the right questions, and take control of their transition.
Each of the steps below can help you feel more prepared, but don’t feel like you have to manage them alone.
If you’ve suffered from an injury that was directly caused by your service in any of the branches of the Armed Forces, including types of injuries such as training accidents and negligence within the UK Armed Forces, the Veterans Welfare Group is here to guide you through each step of the process. – Call our specialist, veteran support team today to learn more about your pension options and post-discharge support.
Understanding the Medical Discharge Process
A medical discharge occurs when an active Armed Forces member is assessed as no longer fit to serve due to a physical or mental health condition. A medical board typically makes its decision based on medical reports, prognosis, and how the condition affects an individual’s ability to perform their operational duties.
It’s essential to recognise that discharge doesn’t necessarily mean the end of support; however, the transition can be complex. Outcomes vary depending on the individual’s condition and service history, which can significantly impact both compensation and long-term entitlements.
What You Should Know about Medical Discharge
Aspect | Why It’s Important |
Medical Board Assessment | Determines if you are fit to remain in service |
Timelines | It can be unclear; planning ahead is essential. |
Post-service pathway | It may involve NHS referrals or MOD support, but don’t assume automatic care. |
Many active personnel assume that treatment will continue seamlessly after discharge. However, delays in referrals, registration, and treatment can occur unless steps are taken ahead of time. That’s why preparation matters.
Request Your Medical Records
One of the most important steps an active servicemember can take before discharge is to request a complete copy of their medical records. These records play a key role in future benefit applications, ongoing treatment, and even legal support, yet many people leave service without ever receiving them.
Medical records provide documented evidence of conditions, treatments, and referrals, which can be essential for:
- Applying for benefits or compensation
- Registering with civilian healthcare providers
- Seeking a second opinion or post-service support
How to Request Your Records
Step | Action |
1. | Visit the MOD Subject Access Request Portal |
2. | Please complete the online form with your personal and service details. |
3. | Submit proof of identity. |
4. | Keep a copy of your request and track progress if needed. |
Records can take several weeks to arrive, so we recommend submitting the request as early as possible. If you’re unsure about how to complete the process or need help reviewing the documents once received, we’re here to guide you through it.
Know Your Referral Pathway
Once the discharge process begins, many military members expect that their medical treatment will continue uninterrupted. In reality, referrals don’t always result in immediate care, and the transition from military to civilian healthcare can involve delays and gaps.
Understanding where you’ve been referred and what support is expected post-discharge is key. Some individuals may be referred to the NHS Armed Forces Rehabilitation Pathway; however, this isn’t automatic, and treatment may not commence immediately.
Armed Forces Rehabilitation Pathway: What You Need to Know
At Veterans Welfare Group, we help individuals who are undergoing a medical discharge or are early service leavers understand the pathway, what to expect, and how to follow up if referrals haven’t been made or communication has broken down.
Our Armed Forces Rehabilitation Scheme is a specially designed rehabilitation programme made to support individuals with complex and enduring health conditions resulting from their service. We’ve developed it to provide holistic support services that cover all the needs of military personnel transitioning back into civilian life, including:
- Psychological Assessments & CBT
- Physiotherapy, Chiropractic, Acupuncture therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Pain Management
- Diagnostics (X-ray, MRI, CT Scans and more)
- Audiology, tinnitus retraining therapy
Our role is to ensure you’re not left behind — and that includes helping you access the specialist rehabilitation support you’re entitled to.
Register with a Veteran-Friendly GP
Once medically discharged, an individual’s healthcare is handed over entirely to the NHS. That transition can feel abrupt, especially if a new GP isn’t familiar with military service or its impact on long-term health.
Registering with a veteran-friendly GP ensures access to a practice that understands the nuances of military life, from mental health issues like PTSD to navigating veteran-specific referrals and benefits.
How to Find a Veteran-Friendly GP
The NHS maintains a list of practices trained under the Veteran-Friendly GP Practice Accreditation Programme.
Action | Link |
Search for a registered practice. | |
Already registered with a GP? | Ask them to consider becoming veteran-friendly |
Veteran-friendly GPs are more likely to:
- Prioritise veteran patients for mental health support
- Understand military medical terminology
- Know how to refer to dedicated veteran services
We can also support the transition if you’re unsure whether your GP qualifies or needs assistance with registration.
Understand Your Financial Position Post-Discharge
Financial planning is one of the most important — and often most confusing — parts of being medically discharged. A service member’s entitlements depend on several factors, including their length of service, injury or illness severity, and whether the condition was service-related.
Before leaving, it’s essential to understand what income and support will be available. This includes:
- Pensions
- Lump sum payments
- Compensation schemes
- Welfare benefits like PIP
Key Considerations
Financial Element | What to Know |
Lump Sum | Based on time served and Tier on discharge. |
Armed Forces Pension | Based on time served and Tier on discharge. |
PIP / UC / Other Benefits | Can be applied for while still serving |
For help navigating all of this, including identifying which benefits apply to your situation, visit our Benefits Advice page.
If you’re unsure about your benefit options leading up to your medical discharge or how to apply – the Veterans Welfare Group is here to help you navigate the options and access what you’re entitled to.
Conclusion
A medical discharge can feel like a door closing — but with the proper support, it’s also the start of something new. Early preparation is key, from understanding your entitlements to planning your next steps. But more importantly, you don’t have to do it alone.
At the Veterans Welfare Group, we bring lived experience and practical knowledge to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for benefits before I’m discharged?
Yes. Some benefits, such as PIP, can be applied for while you’re still in service. Early application can help avoid gaps in financial support.
How long does it take to receive my medical records?
It can take several weeks. We recommend submitting your request as soon as possible through the MOD request portal.
What if my GP isn’t veteran-friendly?
You can still register, but we suggest either requesting accreditation or finding one on the list of veteran-friendly GPs.
Do I need to handle this on my own?
No. Veterans Welfare Group offers guidance, support, and insight from those who’ve already navigated medical discharge. We’re here to help.
