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VA » Health Care » Public Health » Military Exposures » Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses » Benefits » Gulf War Registry Health Exam for Veterans

Public Health

Gulf War Registry Health Exam for Veterans

VA’s Gulf War Registry Health Exam alerts Veterans to possible long-term health problems that may be related to environmental exposures during their military service. The registry data helps VA understand and respond to these health problems more effectively.

Contact your local VA Environmental Health Coordinator about getting a Gulf War Registry health exam.

About the Gulf War Registry health exam

Doctor performs examination on veteran patient.

This comprehensive health exam includes an exposure and medical history, laboratory tests, and a physical exam. A VA health professional will discuss the results face-to-face with the Veteran and in a follow-up letter.

Important points about registry health exams

Free to eligible Veterans and no co-payment
Not a disability compensation exam or required for other VA benefits
Enrollment in VA's health care system not necessary
Based on Veterans’ recollection of service, not on their military records
Veterans should follow up with their primary care provider for care and treatment if new problems develop
Veterans' family members are not eligible for registry exams

Eligibility for Gulf War Registry health exam

Veterans who served in the Gulf during Operation Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, or Operation New Dawn are eligible for the Gulf War Registry exam.

You do not need to be enrolled in VA health care to take part.

Burn Pit Registry

Veterans who are eligible for the Gulf War Registry may also join the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry, which includes additional data related to airborne hazards.

Check your eligibility and sign up through an online questionnaire.

Interested in disability compensation?

The registry evaluation is separate from VA’s disability compensation process.

Veterans who want to be considered for disability compensation for health problems related to Gulf War service must file a claim for disability compensation.

During the claims process, VA will set up a separate exam for compensation if necessary.

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