Kerr VSO urges veterans to enroll in new outreach program

In December, the VA launched a new outreach program encouraging all eligible United States military veterans to enroll in VA health care — including approximately 1 million previously unenrolled veterans who served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan.  The program will include text messages and emails directly to veterans, public service announcements, paid advertising and events.  “The VA decided to embark on this campaign after hearing concerns from veterans about health issues, including mental health challenges and thoughts of suicide – which could be potentially related to repeated blasts and head trauma (from low-level artillery blasts, IED’s, missile launches, heavy fire and more),” said Kerr County Veterans Service Officer Jenna Sanchez.

The benefits of VA health care include access to specialty screenings and services to address any health issues related to blast exposure.  Added VA Secretary Denis McDonough, “We take veteran concerns about repeated blast exposure very seriously and we are studying this matter urgently to learn more about potential health impacts.  While we do that, we don’t want veterans to wait.  They should enroll in VA health care today to get full access to primary care, mental health care, regular screenings, specialty care and more.”

In 2024, the VA made all veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards (and meet basic requirements) eligible to enroll directly in VA health care — years earlier than called for by the PACT Act.  This included all veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or other combat zone at 9/11.  Veterans who never deployed, but who were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or on active duty in the United States also became eligible to enroll.

Veterans who do not meet any of the above criteria can often still access VA health care by receiving VA disability benefits or based on income.

To enroll, veterans can contact the Kerrville VA Medical Center (KVAMC) Enrollment & Eligibility Office at (830) 792-2444 for assistance in completing the form.