VA expands healthcare to all veterans exposed to toxins, hazards

Columbia, SC (WOLO ) — The Department of Veterans Affairs is expanding their healthcare program to any Veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror or any combat zone post 9/11 will be able to enroll in VA healthcare without having to apply for VA benefits. In addition, VA officials say this includes Veterans who were never deployed, but were still exposed to these harmful chemicals while participating in basic training or during active duty will also be allowed to enroll as well.

Staff with the Columbia VA Health Systems say some of the hazardous chemicals include things like chemicals, pesticides, lead, asbestos, certain paints, nuclear weapons, and x-rays, nerve agents, warfare agents, biological weapons, radiation, fire fighting foams, air pollutants from burn pits, sand, dust, contaminated water among other items.

The move is part of the PACT Act that was put in place during the Biden Administration which gets rid of the “phased in” process. Officials say this is a huge move forward for millions of our military men and women making it faster and easier for them to enroll. Officials say it also gives Veterans who fought for their country access to care they have earned. Not to mention, VA officials say statistics show  Veterans enrolled have better overall health results than those not enrolled and this a more affordable way to get care as opposed to private health care options.

Eligible veterans who are interested in finding out more or would like to take advantage of the expansion can go to the link provided
HERE or can call 1800-MYVA411