NJ Spotlight News:
Veterans affected by burn pits, toxins urged to sign up for expanded care
Lyons, New Jersey. (NJ Spotlight) - Veterans are starting to see changes brought about by the newly signed PACT Act, which expands health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances. The VA of New Jersey held events across the state on Wednesday to connect with those who are eligible, while also marking the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, where so many of those soldiers were first exposed to toxic substances.
“Here in New Jersey, we have over 100,000 eligible Veterans that are not enrolled, and we want them to come get their services that they’ve earned, that they deserve, and get those screenings done early,” said Juliza Ramirez-Wylie, a Veteran and associate director of the VA New Jersey Health Care System. “There are some cancers that are more prevalent among us who have been exposed to burn pits. We have to be a lot more mindful, we’ve got to do screenings earlier and when we have signs, we have to address them as soon as possible so that we can get the best treatment options.”
The PACT Act expanded VA health care and benefits for millions of Veterans and their survivors.
If you or your loved one served during the Vietnam War, Gulf War era, or Post-9/11 era, your VA eligibility may have increased. If you know other Veterans or survivors who may be eligible, please share with them!
Visit www.VA.gov/PACT, call 1-800-MyVA411, or find a local facility to get started. Download the Accessing new toxic exposure health care and benefits guide to consider your options.
Don't wait. Get what you earned, find your local VA facility below and apply today!
New Jersey VA Locations
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