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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

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 can receive additional registry exams, 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 the 1990-1991 Gulf War, Operation Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, or Operation New Dawn are eligible for the Gulf War Registry examination. You do not need to be enrolled in VA health care to take part.

VA is also working to establish a new burn pit registry for eligible Veterans who may have been exposed to burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan.

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