VA and Navajo Nation – Kayenta HIS Health Center Host Presumptive Conditions Event

Event: “Your Service. Our Mission: Bringing Benefits Home”

VA Presumptive Conditions Campaign Event

Date: Tuesday, April 10, 2018

8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Location: Kayenta Health Center IHS

Rotunda

Hwy 160, Mile Post 394.3

Kayenta, Arizona 86033

Background:

On April 10, 2018, VA and the Navajo Nation/Kayenta Health Center will host a Presumptive Conditions Campaign Event focused on identifying and assisting Veterans across Navajo Nation who may have presumptive disabilities and who might be eligible for a VA pension claim. A presumptive disability is a condition that VA presumes are related to military service, although the condition may first appear after discharge from the military. These conditions may qualify for VA compensation payments.

Throughout 2018, VA is launching a nationwide campaign to roll out veteran disability enrollment claim events collaboratively with 20 tribal communities. The campaign, titled “Your Service. Our Mission: Bringing Benefits Home” kicked off March 21 in Navajo Nation and tribal communities in eleven states have already confirmed their participation.

VA realizes that reaching these veterans could have a direct, tangible impact on the lives of thousands of previously unreached veterans and their spouses. This will help VA enhance and improve the experience for all Veterans and their families.

During the event, health information and other benefits will be available provided by Northern Arizona VA Health Care System, VHA Vet Center, VBA Native American Direct Loan and others.

“With the focus on veterans with presumptive disabilities and those who are pension eligible, VA is hopeful we can help Indian Country veterans access the full range of benefits they have courageously earned through their service,” said Stephanie Birdwell, director, VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations.

In addition, spouses may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) when a veteran dies as a result of these presumptive disabilities.

The claims event is free. Contact Lorae HoMana Pawiki at 928-776-5306 and lorae.pawiki@va.gov or lorae.pawiki@va.gov or Eunice Begay at 928 283-3450 and ejbegay@navajo-nsn.gov for additional information.