Dr Kieran McCarthy: the resolute force behind GO2 Health’s commitment to veteran care and recovery.
From the intensity of military medicine to the complexities of veteran healthcare, Dr Kieran McCarthy’s journey highlights a simple truth: the most impactful medical care happens when doctors truly understand their patients’ experiences.
Dr Kieran’s path to medicine wasn’t typical. At 36, he graduated from the University of Queensland, driven by a profound desire to make a real difference in the lives of others. Sponsored by the Australian Army, his decision to serve his country as a military medical officer would shape not just his career but his future vision for veteran healthcare in Australia.
military medicine: shaping a doctor’s perspective
Kieran’s approach to healthcare was forged in some of the most challenging environments imaginable, having completed five operational deployments overseas, including two tours in Afghanistan with special operations.
It was his role as Regimental Medical Officer at the 2nd Commando Regiment, where he was entrusted with the medical management and rehabilitation of wounded soldiers, that revealed something he wouldn’t forget: the complex journey of recovery and rehabilitation continues long after the immediate crisis has passed.
the missing piece in veteran healthcare
After transitioning from military service, Kieran witnessed firsthand what many veterans face: a healthcare system that struggles to understand the unique challenges of post-service life.
He knew veterans needed more than just standard medical care, and this would prove pivotal in the next phase of Kieran’s story.
co-founding GO2 Health: a new approach to healthcare
Together with friend, former karate master and acupuncturist Rod Martin, Kieran co-founded GO2 Health in 2016 – a comprehensive medical and allied health practice in Everton Park, Queensland. While their backgrounds shaped different perspectives, they’d both landed at the same conclusion: healthcare should be about bringing together the right team of practitioners who understand both the person and their journey.
“I’ve been where you are, and I’m now navigating my own post-service life. So, I get the tough bits that no one talks about. We’re here to tackle health head-on, aiming for better care and outcomes for you and your family.”
a leader in veteran care: the evolution of GO2 Health
Under Dr Kieran’s leadership, GO2 Health has evolved into one of Australia’s largest veteran care practices, bringing together GPs, nurses and allied health practitioners who deliver patient-centred, collaborative care that understands and respects the veteran experience.
Kieran’s vision didn’t stop there. Drawing on his military service and deep understanding of the barriers to care in the DVA space, he co-founded REFORGE – a veteran care initiative designed by veterans, for veterans.
Acting as an umbrella, the REFORGE brand houses the specialised medical, allied health and psychosocial support services available at GO2 Health for veterans. The program emphasises the importance of empowering veterans to step up and actively participate in their health journey. REFORGE offers access to specialist tools and support, from Australia’s leading veteran pain management program to coordinated veteran care (CVC) and permanent impairment (PI) assessments.
Alongside his practice, Kieran is a vocal advocate for improving veteran health. His efforts have been instrumental in highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to veteran care, addressing not only physical injuries but also mental health concerns and the social challenges associated with the transition back into civilian life.
the mission continues
For Kieran, improving veteran healthcare isn’t just a commitment – it’s a mission, and he knows there’s still work to be done. Whether through GO2 Health’s expanding services, REFORGE’s innovative programs or continued advocacy, he’s dedicated to ensuring veterans can access the right support at the right time so they can forge ahead after service.
Learn more about the GO2 Health story and how we deliver purposeful, specialist care for the men and women who have served our country.
From GP care to specialised veteran support, click here to find the right healthcare services for you.
