By Joseph Mesa
The passing of the PACT Act of 2022 triggered an overwhelming amount of TV ads and misinformation. The act applies to any service member, and also family members stationed at Camp Lejeune for 30 days or more from 1953 to 1987. It applies even if injuries were suffered years ago or if the service member is deceased. The new law goes beyond basic VA disability and will NOT effect current VA benefits or disability.
VA announced that it would screen all its patients for possible exposure to environmental hazards during military service, part of an effort to understand the scope of the issue and monitor veterans for related illnesses. VA officials said the 5-minute screening, a series of questions by a veteran’s primary care physician, will help the department enhance the benefits for veterans already in the system. Veterans can request an appointment for a screening or will be screened automatically during routine care with their primary VA doctor.
The screenings are a requirement of the PACT Act and will be conducted at least every five years. Results of the screening will be kept in veterans’ health records, according to the VA. Veterans who want more information on the PACT Act or to apply for disability benefits should contact me, Joseph Mesa, at [email protected] or go to the VA website or call 1-800-698-2411.