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VETERAN HEALTH - For veterans with mesothelioma diagnosis, numerous benefits can be utilized to cover both medical and financial burdens. Most service members have been inadvertently exposed to asbestos during service, specifically in service in the Navy, in shipyards, and in older buildings.
Veterans don't have to face it alone, with help being out there to make life a little easier. Additional financial options include claims for compensation through lawsuits filed with asbestos manufacturers. Here are the top ones for a veteran diagnosed with the disease.
Disability Compensation
It is a monthly payment that helps veterans diagnosed with service-related mesothelioma. The fund is often proportioned to the impact of the disease on their life. The payment can vary, but its purpose is to ease financial burden and provide steadiness.
To qualify for disability pay, service members must establish a nexus between service in the military and asbestos exposure. Asbestos use in a service environment is recognized, and service members with mesothelioma can access claims with less difficulty. With a strong case, a claim can be filed with a VA-accredited attorney or a representative.
Pension Benefits
Veterans who lack service-related non-mesothelioma disability can obtain a pension through the VA even when they are not entitled to receive a pension for non-service-related mesothelioma. VA pension is a financial scheme for low-income war veterans, covering living expenses when ailing.
You may also consider the Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit, which is helpful for veterans with mobility issues or who depend majorly on family for basic tasks like dressing, eating, and bathing. The funds make it possible to pay for in-home services or assisted living centers, elevating life's quality.
Health Care Benefits
Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma can access medical care benefits, such as medical interventions, operations, and therapy, at approved medical care facilities with medical professionals who have expertise in delivering cutting-edge care for such cases.
Additionally, veterans can receive care outside of the VA system under the Veterans Community Care Program when they have a specific care need not met at a VA facility. Mesothelioma VA benefits allow for timely and effective care for veterans free of excessive medical costs.
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation for Surviving Spouses
If a veteran passes away with mesothelioma, dependents, and a spouse can become entitled to Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). DIC pays a monthly allowance to family members for expenses during a period of such a difficult loss. DIC is an untaxed payment that can allow family members to pay for housing and living expenses and transition to life without their loved one.
To qualify for DIC, a service-related disease, including mesothelioma, must be the leading cause of the demise. The VA examines medical records, service records, and evidence of asbestos exposure to determine eligibility. Consulting with an attorney, a legal advisor, or a VA-approved advisor can assure that family dependents receive a fair claim for benefits.
Legal Compensation and Settlements
Mesothelioma victims can receive legal compensation through trust funds for asbestos companies or lawsuits filed against companies that produced and handled asbestos. Several companies that produced and delivered asbestos-containing materials to the U.S. military have established trust funds to pay out claims for exposure victims.
Filing a claim or suit with such companies will not affect veterans' access to VA benefits. Seeking guidance from an experienced mesothelioma attorney can allow veterans to explore all sources of compensation and maximize financial reward.
Endnote
For veterans with mesothelioma, having information regarding available benefits is paramount in securing proper care and care coordination. From VA care and compensation to claims for legal remedy, such benefits can alleviate the medical and financial burdens of the disease. To get the benefits you deserve, seek information and guidance from representatives at the VA and legal professionals.
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