Martinsburg VAMC supports Toxic Exposed Veterans through PACT Act Outreach Event
PRESS RELEASE
July 12, 2023
Martinsburg , WV — The Martinsburg VA Medical Center will hold an outreach event Thursday, July 27th for Veterans who may be entitled to additional benefits related to toxic exposure during military service.
The event provides Veterans the opportunity to learn more about the PACT Act, if they are eligible and the types of benefits to which they may be entitled. Veterans can also receive a toxic exposure screening, which allows trained professionals to guide them through a series of questions to determine if they are eligible for PACT Act benefits. Veterans can also file a new claim for benefits and check the status of a pending claim while at the Outreach Event.
The “Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022,” also known as the PACT Act, was signed into law Aug. 9, 2022 and expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances.
Though there is no deadline to apply for PACT Act benefits, Veterans are encouraged to apply before August 9, 2023, which, if approved, will allow benefits to be backdated to August 10, 2022. Additionally, if Veterans are not ready to submit a full claim by that date, they can also submit an intent to file by Aug. 9th and still receive the same effective date.
“Veterans whose military service has exposed them to dangerous chemicals and elements and have served in countries and regions that were known to have toxic exposure should absolutely come to this event,” said PACT Act event coordinator, Dr. Jonathan Harris. “Determining their eligibility for PACT Act benefits ensures we can provide them the specialized care they deserve.”
The Martinsburg VAMC PACT Act Outreach Event will be held Thursday, July 27th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Post Theater at the Martinsburg VAMC, located at 510 Butler Avenue in Martinsburg. Veterans do not need an appointment. VAMC representatives will be on hand to provide information and conduct toxic exposure screenings and representatives from the Veterans Benefits Administration will be available to assist Veterans in filing claims.