Marines burning trash in Afghanistan. Photo by Alfred V. Lopez

VA Health Coverage Expanded for All Veterans Exposed to Toxins

Starting March 5, enrollment in VA health care will open to qualifying veterans from the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the global war on terrorism, or any other combat zone after 9/11.

Veterans are not required to have a medical claim approved before registering.

Veterans can enroll online beginning March 5, 2024, at VA.gov/PACT. The VA will use available information in military records, including service dates and locations, to confirm eligibility.

The VA publishes a quarterly newsletter – Military Exposures & Your Health – providing information and education on exposure threats.

The VA has updated the Exposure Ed applications for iOS and Android.  You can download the apps at the following link: Exposure Ed for iOS and Android.

A full list of presumptive cancers related to burn pit exposure can be found at this link: https://www.va.gov/resources/presumptive-cancers-related-to-burn-pit-exposure/