VA offers toxic exposure screenings to enrolled veterans
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers and clinics across the country are now offering enrolled veterans toxic exposure screenings.
The five- to 10-minute screening starts by asking veterans if they believe they’ve experienced toxic exposures during their service. Veterans who answer “yes” are then asked about specific exposures. These include open burn pits, Agent Orange, radiation, contaminated water and other exposures. Veterans will receive follow-up screenings at least every five years.
These screenings are a critical part of the implementation of the PACT Act. Since launching a pilot program on Sept. 6, VA has screened more than 19,000 veterans and found a 37% concern of exposure among veterans.
“These screenings are an important step toward making sure that all toxic exposed veterans get the care and benefits they deserve," said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “At the end of the day, these screenings will improve health outcomes for veterans — and there’s nothing more important than that.”
Access the following links for more information:
- https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures
- https://www.warrelatedillness.va.gov/WARRELATEDILLNESS/education/toxicexposurescreeninformation.asp