The PACT Act, or The Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act, is a significant expansion of health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to toxins and other hazards during military service. Here’s how Veterans can find out if they qualify for the PACT Act:
Understanding the PACT Act
The PACT Act expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras. It adds more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures.
Eligibility for VA Health Care Under the PACT Act
Veterans are eligible to enroll in VA health care under the PACT Act if they meet the basic service and discharge requirements and any of these descriptions are true for them:
- They served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, or any other combat zone after 9/11.
- They were exposed to toxins or other hazards during military service at home or abroad.
Specific toxins and hazards include burn pits, sand and dust, particulates, oil well or sulfur fires, chemicals, radiation, warfare agents, depleted uranium, herbicides, and other occupational hazards.
Presumptive Conditions for Toxic Exposure
For many health conditions, Veterans need to prove that their service caused their condition. But for some conditions, the VA automatically assumes (or “presumes”) that their service caused their condition. These are called “presumptive conditions.” If a Veteran has a presumptive condition, they don’t need to prove that their service caused the condition. They only need to meet the service requirements for the presumption.
How to Apply
Veterans can apply for PACT Act-related disability compensation or apply for VA health care now. They can visit VA.gov/PACT or call 1-800-MYVA411 to learn more and apply for VA health care.
The PACT Act is a significant step towards providing comprehensive health care to Veterans exposed to toxins and hazards during their service. Veterans are encouraged to reach out to VA to understand their eligibility and apply for the benefits they deserve.