April 6, 2023 – El Paso County Division of Veteran Services implements the PACT Act Stand Down Program to provide new and streamlined services to the veteran community. The Pikes Peak region is home to more than 100,000 veterans and their families. El Paso County is committed to providing quality services and resources to the veteran community.
The Program designates specific “claims clinics” to serve veterans at the El Paso County Veterans Office. During the clinics, the Veteran Health Administration assists County staff, providing medical providers who perform Toxic Health Screenings for veterans who served in PACT Act presumptive locations. These veterans also have the opportunity to enroll in VA Healthcare if not previously enrolled.
“It is critical that we are innovative with our approach to public service and continually work to improve and protect the quality of life for all of our residents,” said El Paso County Board Member Longinos Gonzalez, Jr. “This innovative program allows us to better connect with, educate, and serve our veteran community to provide practical and life-changing assistance.”
At the March 17th PACT Act Stand Down Program clinic, the El Paso County Division of Veteran Services held two sessions, hosting representatives from the PFC Floyd K Lindstrom VA Clinic, two VA claims representatives, an enrollment specialist, and three nurses to process toxic exposure screenings. In total, the Program served 67 El Paso County Veterans. In addition, with the assistance of VA claims representatives, 42 Veterans sought help and guidance regarding filing claims. Additionally, toxic exposure screenings were completed for 51 Veterans. Since implementation, the Program has assisted over 220 veterans, resulting in 130 PACT Act claims filed.
The next clinic will be held at the El Paso County Veteran Service Office on Friday, April 21, 2023, which will include two sessions, the first at 9:00 AM and the second at 1:00 PM. Future 2023 dates include May 19, June 16, and July 21st. All clinics will be held at the El Paso County Veteran Service Office at 5850 Championship View, Suite 130, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80922.
Availability is limited, and pre-registration is requested. To register and for more information, contact the El Paso County Veteran Service Office at 719.520.7750 or vet@elpasoco.com.
For additional veteran resources, visit https://justiceservices.elpasoco.com/veterans-services/.