The Australian government is improving and expanding the family health program for the Australian Defence Force and their families, intending to make healthcare more affordable.
The government plans to double the reimbursement cost and will include more non-medical items to the reimbursement list. The government is also including services to reduce the use of tabacco, vaccinations, reimbursements for use of ambulance, and also for some pharmaceuticals.
The chief of the Defence force, along with the defence men welcomed the government’s decision.
“To make healthcare more accessible to your ADF and their families, the ADF Family Health Program is being upgraded. The annual allowance per dependent will double in the next year, and a wider range of non-medical items will be eligible for reimbursement”, said General Angus Campbell, Chief of the Australian Defence Force, on Twitter.
He further said that the ADF prioritises the health and welfare of its personnel and their families. We help our people live healthy, active lives by improving the ADF Family Health Program.
General Angus Campbell said that from July 1, 2023, the Australian government would increase the claimable allowance from $400 to $800 for each dependant.
This program honours the contributions and sacrifices made by Australian Defence Force (ADF) troops and their families, as well as the challenges many ADF families face in finding affordable healthcare after relocating. The effort seeks to increase ADF recruitment and retention. The program allows Dependants to claim a reward for various health services from Allied Health, General Practitioner; Specialists (outpatient), and Diagnostic and Radiology services.