34,000 completed toxic exposure screenings
Jackson VA surpasses the mark of 34,000 toxic exposure screenings, signifying a milestone in its mission to fulfill the goals of the PACT Act, a new law that expands VA health care benefits and eligibility for Veterans.
The PACT Act was signed into law on August 10, 2022, and expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. The law helps VA provide generations of Veterans—and their survivor—with the care and benefits they have earned and deserve. As of March 5, 2024, VA expanded health care to millions of Veterans, years earlier than called for by the PACT Act.
“This milestone clearly illustrates our healthcare team’s dedication to providing timely, efficient, ethical, safe, compassionate, and quality health care to Veterans,” said Michael B. Renfrow, Interim Medical Center Director. “The PACT Act has helped us build a stronger healthcare team with a more skilled workforce to meet the growing demand for benefits and services. We quickly adapted to the new program and learned to focus our energy on taking care of our Veterans and working toward the completion of our goals within the program. We want every enrolled Veteran to have a completed toxic exposure screening and a clear line of communication with their primary care provider.”
More than 69% of Veteran population screened
More than 69% of our Veteran population has been screened, allowing our healthcare teams to consider each Veteran’s specific health requirements, including medical conditions considered for presumptive status under the PACT Act. Veterans who are not enrolled but who are eligible to enroll have an opportunity to enroll and receive a quick 5–10 minute screening to identify any potential exposures to toxins during their military service and connect them to additional resources if they have any concerns.
All Veterans enrolled in VA health care can receive a toxic exposure screening at an upcoming appointment or sooner by contacting a Toxic Exposure Screening Navigator.
All enrolled Veterans should receive the screening at least once every five years. Depending on your response, you may be connected to support and resources, including a review by your primary care team.
Ask about the screening at your next VA health care appointment. If you don’t have an upcoming appointment, or if you want to get the screening sooner, contact your local VA health facility. Ask to get screened by the toxic exposure screening navigator.
For additional questions, contact Emilio Lindo, Environmental Health Coordinator, at 601-362-4471, ext. 53013 or Emilio.Lindo@va.gov.