In order to facilitate veterans’ access to earned benefits and free medical care, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has stated that it will henceforth assume service connection for a number of cancers. This implies that veterans who have been diagnosed with one of these malignancies and served in certain regions during specific time periods won’t need to provide evidence linking their illness to their military service.
The following are included in the enlarged list of presumed cancers:
- Acute and chronic leukemias
- Multiple myelomas
- Myelodysplastic syndromes
- Myelofibrosis
- Urinary bladder cancer
- Ureter cancer
- Related genitourinary cancers
For Gulf War Veterans and Post-9/11 Veterans who served in certain areas during their respective conflicts, these tumors are now presumed to be related to their service.
What this implies for Veterans
Veterans who have been diagnosed with one of these cancers and served in one of the qualifying places may be eligible for VA disability payments and health treatment. By submitting a claim to the VA, you can apply for benefits.
How to submit a claim
A claim can be submitted in person at a VA regional office, by mail, or online. Both your diagnosis and proof of military service will be required.
If you require assistance
You can call the VA at 1-800-827-1000 or visit their website at www.va.gov if you have any concerns or need assistance submitting a claim under the PACT Act.
Extra sources
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VA press release
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VA PACT Act website
All veterans who might qualify are encouraged to apply for PACT Act benefits.