I’m trying to figure out what benefits I can get as a Vietnam Vet dealing with some health issues. I’ve got hearing loss, diabetes, and some back issues due to surgery, and I was exposed to Agent Orange while I was in Vietnam from ‘67 to ‘68. Any advice on where to start with the VA?
Hey ABC, I think the VA has benefits specifically for Agent Orange exposure. You could be eligible for compensation for certain conditions like diabetes that are connected to that.
Sai said:
Hey ABC, I think the VA has benefits specifically for Agent Orange exposure. You could be eligible for compensation for certain conditions like diabetes that are connected to that.
Thanks, DEF! Yeah, I heard something about that. Do you know if there’s a way to talk directly to someone at the VA?
@Dezi
Sure thing. There should be patient advocates at the VA you can reach out to directly—they’re there to help guide you through benefits. If you’re in NorCal, check the VA’s site for a list of contacts.
Hey, FYI, there’s also the option of a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) who can work with you for free to apply for VA benefits. They’re not part of the VA but work with vets all the time.
Lior said:
Hey, FYI, there’s also the option of a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) who can work with you for free to apply for VA benefits. They’re not part of the VA but work with vets all the time.
That sounds helpful! How do I find a VSO?
@Dezi
You can usually find them through organizations like the American Legion or VFW. Sometimes even county offices have one.
@Dezi
You might also try your state’s Department of Veterans Affairs. They have VSOs and other resources that can help too.
If your back issues are connected to Agent Orange, the VA should be able to help. I’d look into applying for benefits for secondary conditions—hearing loss might qualify, too.
Val said:
If your back issues are connected to Agent Orange, the VA should be able to help. I’d look into applying for benefits for secondary conditions—hearing loss might qualify, too.
Good point, I didn’t think about secondary conditions. I’ll bring that up with the VA, thanks!
I had a similar issue. You should ask the VA about something called a ‘presumptive condition’ due to Agent Orange. That could really simplify things.
Ori said:
I had a similar issue. You should ask the VA about something called a ‘presumptive condition’ due to Agent Orange. That could really simplify things.
Presumptive condition? Never heard of that… is it like an automatic approval or something?
@Dezi
Basically, yeah! The VA considers certain conditions ‘presumptive’ for vets exposed to Agent Orange, which makes it easier to qualify for benefits.
Just be sure to gather any medical records related to your conditions before you go to the VA. They’ll want to see documentation for sure.
Adi said:
Just be sure to gather any medical records related to your conditions before you go to the VA. They’ll want to see documentation for sure.
Definitely. I’ll make sure to get all that together. Thanks for the heads-up!