Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is claimable through DVA when caused or aggravated by service-related factors. Stress, irregular eating patterns, alcohol use, and certain medications used during service are recognised contributing factors.
Why GERD is common in the ADF
High-stress operational environments, irregular meal patterns during deployments, and the occupational and psychological demands of service are recognised contributors to GERD in veterans.
Medical access
Provisional Access to Medical Treatment (PAMT)
GERD is not currently on the PAMT list. However, if your GERD is related to a mental health condition, you may be eligible for Non-Liability Health Care (NLHC) — which provides funded mental health treatment without a liability determination. Speak to your GP about a DVA mental health referral.
Statement of Principles — in plain English
DVA assesses your claim against a Statement of Principles (SoP). Here are the key factors that most commonly apply to GERD claims, translated from the legal language.
Smoking, if smoking was taken up or significantly increased during service
Smoking of tobacco within 5 years before onset at a relevant threshold
Consuming a high-fat diet while in service, relevant for extended field deployments
Consistent high-fat dietary exposure during service
Being obese at the time of onset, where obesity has a service connection
BMI ≥30 kg/m²
What to expect for impairment points
GERD impairment is assessed based on symptom frequency and severity, response to treatment, and any complications such as oesophagitis or Barrett's oesophagus.
Use the DVA PI Points CalculatorWhat a strong GERD claim looks like
Gastroenterologist or GP report confirming diagnosis
Endoscopy report if available
Records establishing the service-related contributing factors
DVA currently takes 3–6 months to decide most initial liability claims. Complex or multi-condition claims can take longer. Lodging a complete, decision-ready claim upfront reduces back-and-forth.
Processing times guideCommon questions about GERD claims
Ready to claim GERD?
Book a free consultation and we'll walk you through whether your condition meets the SoP factors, what evidence you need, and how to build a decision-ready claim.
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