John Plahovinsak
During a recent live virtual event performed by the Cincinnati VA with approximately 1,500 veterans in attendance, participants were polled about their knowledge of the PACT Act and COMPACT Act. The results of the poll are noteworthy. Less than 50 percent of responding veterans were aware of the specifications of either Act.
The following is my synopsis of the two Acts.
The PACT Act and the COMPACT Act are two significant pieces of legislation enacted to support US Veterans. These acts aim to address various issues veterans face, including health care, mental health, and benefits.
The PACT Act, also known as the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act, is a comprehensive law that addresses the healthcare needs of veterans who have been exposed to toxic substances during their service. This act is named in honor of Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson, an Ohioan who passed away due to toxic exposure during his military service. The PACT Act expands health care and benefits for veterans who were exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. It also includes provisions for veterans who served in specific locations and time periods, ensuring they receive the care and benefits they deserve.
One of the key components of the PACT Act is the expansion of the list of presumptive conditions for veterans exposed to toxic substances. This means that veterans who served in certain locations and time periods and who develop specific health conditions are presumed to have been exposed to toxic substances, making it easier for them to receive health care and benefits. The act also mandates the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to conduct outreach and education to ensure veterans are aware of the benefits available to them under this law.
The COMPACT Act, or the Veterans Comprehensive Prevention, Access to Care and Treatment Act, focuses on mental health care and suicide prevention for veterans. This act provides veterans in crisis with access to free emergency mental health care, regardless of whether they are enrolled in the VA health care system. The COMPACT Act aims to remove barriers to care and ensure that veterans in crisis receive the help they need without delay.
One of the significant provisions of the COMPACT Act is the authorization for the VA to cover the cost of emergency mental health care for veterans in crisis. This includes care provided at VA facilities, as well as care provided by non-VA providers. The act also mandates the VA to establish a national program to provide education and training on suicide prevention to veterans, their families, and caregivers.
The COMPACT Act also includes provisions to improve the coordination of care for veterans in crisis. This includes the establishment of a national crisis line for veterans, as well as the development of a comprehensive plan to address the mental health needs of veterans. The act also mandates the VA to conduct outreach and education to ensure veterans and their families are aware of the resources available to them.
Both the PACT Act and the COMPACT Act represent significant steps forward in addressing the needs of US veterans. These acts provide critical support to veterans who have been exposed to toxic substances and those who are in crisis, ensuring they receive the care and benefits they deserve. By expanding access to health care and benefits, and by providing critical support for mental health care and suicide prevention, these acts honor the service and sacrifice of US veterans and their families.
Lastly, the PACT Act and the COMPACT Act are essential pieces of legislation that address the overall health care and mental health needs of US veterans. These acts provide critical support to veterans who have been exposed to toxic substances and those who are in crisis, ensuring they receive the care and benefits they deserve. By expanding access to health care and benefits, and by providing critical support for mental health care and suicide prevention, these acts continue to honor the service and sacrifice of US veterans and their families.
Veterans with potential qualifications, questions, or general interest, should contact Clermont County Veteran Services and request an appointment to speak with a service officer or visit VA.GOV to locate articles on the two topics.
Steve Balczo is the executive director of the Clermont County Veterans’ Service Commission.