PACT Implementation Off to a Good Start with a Million Screenings
February 02, 2023
Exposure to various toxins produced by open burn pits, contaminated water, radiation, Agent Orange, and other chemicals, has dogged the U.S. military for years. Service members have returned home and discovered they have contracted an illness that may have been caused by these toxic exposures. The PACT Act has addressed the gap between exposure and treatment for service members and their survivors.
Veterans may be screened at any time of the year by their VA healthcare provider. After their initial screening, they are offered further screening at least once every five years. To date, the Department of Veterans Affairs has screened 1 million veterans and counting.
The screening process, usually about ten minutes, begins with the veteran being asked if they feel they have been exposed to a toxic substance during their tour(s) of duty. If they feel they have been exposed, they are questioned extensively about their exposure, what they were exposed to, and for how long, along with obtaining a detailed overview of their symptoms.
The successful screening process and high rate of screenings were facilitated by employing extensive outreach campaigns nationwide, in Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. There were more than 90 weeks of action events to get the message out.
“Veterans who feel they were exposed to toxic substances can get screened at any time of the year with their VA healthcare provider,” Michigan veteran’s lawyer Jim Fausone explained. To learn more about the PACT Act and how it benefits service members, visit HERE.
If a veteran has been exposed to toxins, it is important for them to get screened, as it affects their immediate and future care. Early intervention can improve the level of care and possible medical outcome.
If a veteran runs difficulties seeking benefits, Legal Help For Veterans, PLLC is a nationwide VA Disability law firm assisting veterans and their family members in all federal VA benefit matters.
Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC has a national practice representing veterans from across the country. They have helped veterans collect over $10,000,000 in future and retroactive benefits.