Published on: 16th February 2022
The RNOH has successfully completed its three-year re-accreditation, following a formal review by the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA).
On 14 February 2022, the RNOH received its formal re-accreditation status from the VCHA. The VCHA is a group of NHS healthcare providers in England committed to providing the best standards of care for the Armed Forces community, based on the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant.
The Armed Forces Covenant - which recently passed into law - is a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve, or who have served, in the Armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly. The aim is to develop, share and drive the implementation of best practice that will improve armed forces veterans' care, while at the same time raising standards for everyone across the NHS.
Speaking about the achievement, Professor Tim Briggs, CBE, said: “I am extremely proud to announce the RNOH – my own Trust – has demonstrated continuous improvement in how it cares for veterans, Reservists, and their families. It is only right that people, who have given so much, receive the same treatment as everyone else. By recognising the unique situation and issues faced by the Armed Forces community, we can continue in the right direction to ensuring this group does not face unwarranted variation in the care they receive.”
RNOH Chief Executive Officer, Professor Paul Fish, added: “The RNOH is delighted and honoured to receive our Veterans Aware re-accreditation. As the nation’s leading and largest orthopaedic hospital, our commitment to caring for veterans and their specific needs is a key component in our ongoing drive to deliver the safest, most timely and appropriate services to patients. Our range of skills and expertise allows us to focus on and deliver the clinical specialties that are particular to veterans’ needs, and we’re proud to be part of the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance initiative.”
VCHA Regional Lead for the South East, Anna-Marie Tipping, commented:
"The re-accreditation process is an opportunity for Trusts to share lessons learnt over the previous three years. We encourage Trusts to speak to patients, families and staff, to learn from the lived experience of the military, and what it means as an employer and healthcare provider. RNOH has done just that. Training staff on mental health provisions available for the Armed Forces, providing private rooms for those with complications associated with the military, creating meaningful relationships with BLESMA and SSAFA, and ensuring patients are identified at every step of their journey. RNOH have created an environment where service is recognised and appreciated, and I look forward to celebrating their achievements over the next three years.“
The Veteran Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA) is committed to improving Armed Forces and Veteran care whilst raising standards for all. 105 NHS providers in England are now Veteran Aware accredited, and the VCHA aims to have all Trusts in England accredited by March 2023 at the latest. Find out more about their work and about rehabilitation by clicking here.