The Syracuse Veterans Administration Medical Center, which serves veterans from across the region, will host an informational event — both virtually and in-person — on Wednesday, Dec. 14, to help veterans understand how they can get healthcare benefits under the PACT Act.

The act expands healthcare for an estimated 3.5 million veterans who were exposed to toxic burn pits areas used to discard trash by incinerating it. Burn pits were common around U.S. military camps in Iraq and Afghanistan. Studies have since linked them to cancer, asthma, and other chronic health problems.

The PACT Act was signed into law on Aug. 8. The event will be held in the auditorium of the Medical Center at the VA at 800 Irving Ave. in Syracuse. The session will allow veterans to learn more about applying for benefits and getting screened for toxic exposure.

The PACT Act event runs from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Veterans who are enrolled with VA Healthcare must bring a photo ID and a copy of their DD214. Parking will be available in the Medical Center garage. There will be signs directing participants to the auditorium.

The event is also available virtually. For information on the virtual link or the in-person event, contact Collen Metcalf at 315-425-4400, ext. 58003, or Jennifer Menard at 315-414-1416.