Gateway Veteran Summer Edition

The PACT Act is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. It is perhaps the largest health care and benefits expansion in VA history. The PACT Act adds to the list of health conditions that we assume (or “presume”) are caused by exposure to these substances. This law helps us provide generations of Veterans—and their survivors—with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve! It offers expanded VA health care eligibility for many veterans who were not previously covered by VA care PACT ACT VA IS EXPANDING CARE AND BENEFITS FOR VETERANS AND SURVIVORS. If you, a Veteran, family member, or survivor would like more information about the PACT Act and your VA benefits: • Go to www.va.gov/pact • CALL 1-800-MyVA411 (698-2411) 24/7/365 • VASTLHCS Eligibility Office: 314-652-4100 ext 54165 (Mon - Fri / 8am-4pm) • Talk with a Veterans Service Officer (they’re free!) www.VA.gov/disability/get-help-filing-claim • Attend one of our upcoming PACT Act outreach events • Go to www.facebook.com/VASTLouis for additional information Toxic exposure screenings are available here at VA St. Louis Health Care System and at VA health facilities across the country. Every Veteran enrolled in VA health care will receive an initial screening and a follow-up screening at least once every 5 years. The screening will ask you if you think you were exposed to any of these hazards while serving: • Open burn pits and other airborne hazards • Agent Orange • Radiation • Gulf War-related exposures • Other exposures • Camp Lejeune contaminated water exposure At your screening, we’ll give you information about any benefits, registry exams, and clin- ical resources you may need. Ask about this screening at your next VA health care ap- pointment. If you don’t have an upcoming appointment, or if you want to get a screen- ing sooner, contact your primary care provider through MyHealtheVet and ask to get screened for toxic exposure.

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