New VA Benefits 2024: A soldier’s job carries many risks, even during peacetime. One such risk is exposure to toxic substances that can cause serious health problems. For this reason, the Department of Veterans Affairs has provided a new health benefit to all members of the military.
As part of the recent increase in staff hiring in all relevant areas, President Joe Biden signed the PACT Act in August 2022, mandating the expansion of veterans’ health care benefits. The expansion was due to be implemented gradually by 2032, however it was accelerated by the recent increase in staff hiring in all relevant areas.
According to VA estimates, millions of veterans will be able to take advantage of the PACT Act as of March 5.
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Starting today, March 5, if you were exposed to toxins or other hazards while serving at home or abroad, you're eligible to apply for the best, most affordable health care in America for Veterans.
Apply now at https://t.co/vrVPizFUsE. pic.twitter.com/AQXAR7Q7RF
— Veterans Affairs (@DeptVetAffairs) March 5, 2024
Who can apply for the benefit?
This program will benefit all veterans who served in Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, Iraq, and Afghanistan wars, as well as veterans who never served in combat but participated in a toxic exposure risk activity (TERA).
The TERAs include exposure to toxic substances such as pesticides, herbicides, contaminated water, depleted uranium from embedded shrapnel, and occupational hazards, such as lead, industrial solvents, toxic paints, asbestos, and firefighting foam.
Aside from air pollutants from burn pits, particulate matter, sulfur or oil well fires, it also covers radiation exposure, including handling, maintaining, or detonating nuclear weapons. Chemical or biological weapons and nerve agents are also included.
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How do I apply for the program?
The VA will use veteran’s service records to ascertain who took part in a TERA. No application is required and no service-related disability is required to qualify.
Toxic exposure testing will be available through a primary physician, who will refer the patient to a specialist as necessary.
At a news conference, VA Under Secretary for Health Dr. Shereef Elnahal announced that veterans undergoing treatment as a result of participating in a TERA will not be required to pay copayments for these appointments.
