In determining if a breathing or digestive disorder is related to the exposure to the 9/11 dust and fumes the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) generally require that the victim claimant be treated and diagnosed with the condition within five years of their 9/11 exposure (a “maximum time interval”). There are exceptions to this five-year rule (also called a minimum latency period), including exacerbated or new-onset COPD and all types of interstitial lung disease (ILDs).
Determining if a particular breathing or digestive condition is 9/11-related under the rules of the WTC Health Program and VCF is often tricky, so it’s strongly suggested that a potential 9/11 claimant get guidance and advice. Satisfying the maximum time interval and the other 9/11 program rules is essential if you want to qualify for lifetime medical treatment through the WTCHP or financial compensation through the VCF.
