WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- As directed by President Biden, the federal government has expanded healthcare for all Veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or any other combat zone after 9/11 will be eligible to enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. Additionally, Veterans who have never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or on active duty in the United States will also be eligible to enroll.

County Veteran Service Officers are a significant help in guiding Veterans in the services that may be available.

Codington County Veteran Service Officer Todd Rose explain more.

Rose talks about how it got started.

Rose says it could cause a large influx and urges Veterans to sign up for healthcare services before entering the VA Hospital, significantly affecting their processing.

Several hazards/conditions qualify.

Important informational meetings have been scheduled at the Watertown Event Center for March 23, 2024; two sessions are scheduled.

There are several ways you can sign up: 877-222-8387 Monday – Friday, download a 10-10EZ, and Rose can help you send it in, or visit https://news.va.gov/129241/veterans-exposed-toxins-hazards-now-eligible/, or call them locally at  605-882-6289.