PACT Act Claims: TERA VA Medical Opinions

The PACT Act expanded access to healthcare and VA disability benefits for many veterans who suffered toxic exposures during their military service. Many of these veterans had waited years, or even decades, for recognition that their medical conditions were service-connected. What some veterans don’t know is that coverage and procedures under the PACT Act continue to evolve.

Table of Contents

That means a veteran who believed they didn’t qualify or had a VA disability claim denied might have a stronger case now–and that it’s important to stay up to date on changes, in case benefits become available.

Changes Under the Pact Act

Some of the changes under the PACT Act have been well publicized. For example, in March of 2024, all veterans who had suffered toxic exposures during their military service or training became eligible for VA healthcare services. The VA said this change would give millions of veterans access to healthcare services several years earlier than required by the statute.

Another big development is the effort currently underway to add new conditions to the list of conditions presumed service-connected for veterans who served in certain times and places. While these new additions are still in the rulemaking process, they have the potential to allow veterans with toxic exposures who are suffering from these conditions to qualify for VA disability benefits without having to prove their conditions are service-connected.

Other changes are more technical and don’t get as much press, but can still make a big difference for veterans. For example, the VA has proposed changes that would:

Eliminate manifestation date requirements for Persian Gulf War claims based on undiagnosed illness and medically unexplained chronic multisymptom illnesses
Update the list of service locations that make a veteran eligible for a presumption of toxic exposure

The VA is also seeking to require the VA to order a C&P exam and medical opinion in any case where the veteran participated in a toxic exposure risk activity (TERA) and the evidence does not establish a service connection. The previous language required the exam and/or opinion only if there was not sufficient evidence to render a decision, whether positive or negative. This change should entitle more veterans who might otherwise have been denied to examinations that could help establish their claims.

Call 1-888-373-4722 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form

Disabled Vets Monitors Pact Act and Other VA Disability Updates

Staying up to date on the PACT Act rule changes and other legal and regulatory changes that can impact your right to VA disability and other benefits can be daunting. At Disabled Vets, our advocates can advise you on the current state of the law and regulations as they apply in your situation, and help you put together the strongest claim possible. To learn more, call us at 888-373-4722 or fill out our contact form here.

PACT Act Claims: TERA VA Medical Opinions

Changes Under the Pact Act

Disabled Vets Monitors Pact Act and Other VA Disability Updates

Read More Here:

Veterans Disability Blog Posts: