Why doesn't the VA automatically register all veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange?

Please receive my condolences on your loss. I am a cancer survivor due to agent orange exposure and went through the process. First off you have to go to the VA and register as a veteran. As a part of that and they see you served in Viet Nam they will suggest that you follow up and establish yourself in the AO registry. The registry itself does NOT lead to a healthcare intervention though the physical exam and history may lead to a physician referral. if you want to be considered for disability compensation for health problems related to Agent Orange exposure you have to file a claim for that benefit.

SPC Thomas Devine I am sorry for your loss. The VA does not know which Veterans were exposed to Agent Orange. The Veteran has to prove that they have an illness caused by exposure to Agent Orange and provide proof that they served in an area where Agent Orange was sprayed.

Am I eligible for VA disability benefits based on exposure to Agent Orange?
You may be eligible for VA disability benefits if you meet both of these requirements.

Both of these must be true:

You have an illness that’s caused by exposure to Agent Orange, and
You served in a location that exposed you to Agent Orange

I'm sorry for your loss. The VA doesn't automatically register vets for anything. They don't know if something needs attention until it is identified.