The Provisional Access to Medical Treatment (PAMT) program has been extended, offering ongoing support for veterans awaiting claims decisions. Eligible veterans can now register for the program until 30 June 2026, with access to treatment continuing until 31 December 2026. This extension reaffirms the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) commitment to ensuring veterans receive timely care while navigating the claims process.
What is the PAMT Program?
PAMT provides provisional medical and allied health treatment for veterans who submit a liability claim for one or more of the 20 most commonly accepted conditions under DVA’s coverage. The program allows veterans to access necessary treatment while DVA assesses their claim.
Once a claim is accepted, treatment costs for the condition will be fully funded by DVA under existing health care arrangements.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for PAMT, veterans must:
- Lodge a liability claim for a service-related injury or disease under the:
- Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA), or
- Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation (Defence-related Claims) Act 1988 (DRCA).
- Submit their claim by 30 June 2026.
Veterans remain eligible for PAMT treatment until:
- A primary determination is made on their claim,
- An appeal or review process is finalized, or
- The program ends on 31 December 2026.
Conditions Covered by PAMT
The program focuses on 20 specified conditions, categorized into musculoskeletal, hearing, and skin conditions, including but not limited to:
- Musculoskeletal: Lumbar Spondylosis, Achilles Tendinopathy, Osteoarthritis, Rotator Cuff Syndrome
- Hearing: Tinnitus, Sensorineural Hearing Loss
- Skin: Solar Keratosis, Non-Melanotic Malignant Neoplasm of the Skin
For the full list of conditions, visit the DVA PAMT page.
Accessing PAMT Services
Upon lodging a claim, veterans will receive a Treatment Confirmation Form from DVA. This form enables treatment access, subject to the following:
- For GPs:
- Complete the Treatment Confirmation Form if the condition aligns with one of the 20 listed.
- Submit the form to DVA and provide the veteran with a copy for continued treatment until a healthcare card is updated.
- For Allied Health Providers:
- Services require a GP referral (excluding dental and optometry).
- Claims are processed using standard DVA arrangements.
Treatment Coverage
Treatment is governed by the Treatment Principles under MRCA and DRCA. Should treatment costs exceed these guidelines, prior approval from DVA is necessary.
Why This Matters
The extension of PAMT to 2026 is a significant step in ensuring veterans receive uninterrupted care for their health needs. With access to timely treatment, veterans can focus on their recovery without waiting for claims to be finalised.
For further information, visit the DVA website. If you need assistance with your DVA claim, contact KSC Claims for expert support in navigating the claims process.
