New VA Policy Allows Millions of Veterans Eligibility for VA Care

PHOENIX (February 27, 2024) – Veterans exposed to airborne hazards and other toxins during their military service will become eligible on March 5 for free or low-cost health care, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced.

The new policy will expand care to eligible Veterans who served during the Vietnam War, Gulf War, conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Global War on Terrorism, or any other combat zone after 9/11, according to VA. The policy change under the PACT Act is expected to expand VA care to millions more Veterans.

VA said it will waive requirements for Veterans to first file and receive approval for a medical disability claim for exposures including burn pits, sulfur fires, asbestos, firefighting foam, and other toxins to access health services at VA clinics, medical offices and hospitals.  

Eligible Veterans can receive free or low-cost care for a range of health services, including primary care, surgeries, urgent care and emergency services, according to VA. Veterans can visit VA.gov/PACT to enroll.

Read the VA news release detailing the new PACT Act policy.