• 25
  • February
    2011

Those who serve in our armed forces know the dangers they face in war zones. Every day they need to be wary of serious injury or death at the hands of the enemy. Veterans of the Vietnam War are currently experiencing many health problems due to exposure to Agent Orange, a chemical originally deployed by U.S. forces.

Agent Orange was used in Vietnam from 1961 to 1971. Planes sprayed the herbicide over forests to destroy plant life to reduce potential hiding places. Recently, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has made additions to its Agent Orange presumptives list, which will enable more Vietnam veterans to receive additional benefits because of medical conditions they are suffering because of service-connected exposure to Agent Orange.

Three new illnesses have been listed in VA regulations after extensive studies have determined that they were caused by Agent Orange. If a veteran has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, ischemic heart disease, or hairy-cell or other B-cell leukemia, they may be eligible for disability benefits from the VA. These presumptives apply to veterans who served in Vietnam from January 9, 1962, to May 7, 1975, or in the Demilitarized Zone in Korea from April 1, 1968 to August 31, 1971.

VA officials expect more than 150,000 new claims over the next year and a half, along with 90,000 claims that were originally denied. These claims are expected to cost over $40 billion dollars through 2021. The VA is asking that veterans submit their information as soon as possible, to allow the service-connected disability claims to be processed more quickly through a "fast track" processing system.

When applying for benefits, veterans will need to supply information from their doctors that establishes their illnesses, as well as documentation that proves their service within the region and specified timeframes. They may either upload this information when filing their fast track claim, or authorize the VA to contact their physician. Physicians may also complete online forms that are connected to one of the listed illnesses.

Many veterans may be uncertain of the information that is required to be included with their application, especially if their physician is not familiar with the VA system. A disability attorney experienced with the VA system can explain the process, and help you collect the necessary information that you will need to submit. This process will require attention to detail, as any missing information could result in claims being delayed or denied.

Related Source:

Agent Orange: About Agent Orange