DPHHS has collected nearly 3,000 surveys to date; working to increase that number
Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) officials have extended the deadline for a survey to collect information that will help inform future long-term care needs of veterans in the state.
“To date, nearly 3,000 veterans have filled out the survey, and now we’ve extended the deadline to July 15 to allow more time to boost that number even higher,” said Senior and Long Term Care (SLTC) administrator Barb Smith. “We’re working diligently to make the data we’re collecting through the survey as robust as possible.”
Smith said the goal of the survey is to thoroughly examine Montana’s veteran population demographics, assess the current state of long-term care services, and evaluate future needs. DPHHS is hoping to receive at least 5,000 respondents by the time the survey closes.
Approval for conducting the Veterans’ Long-Term Care Needs Survey was established through House Bill 264, which was signed by Governor Greg Gianforte in April of 2023.
The survey is available online at veteransurvey.mt.gov and will be available until July 15, 2024.
“This survey provides an opportunity for veterans like myself to have a say in how our state treats veterans,” said Blake Fuhriman, Executive Director for the Veterans Navigation Network. “That is definitely worth the 15 minutes of time it took me to complete the survey.”
The survey will evaluate the need for nursing home, domiciliary, and Alzheimer's disease support services, as well as the various types of community and in-home care that are needed. Assessing the condition and capacity of Montana’s veteran cemeteries also falls within the scope of the project.
“Valuable insight from survey participants will help us tailor our services more effectively, ensuring they meet the real and evolving needs of our veteran population,” Smith said.“Individuals needing assistance to complete the survey are encouraged to reach out to local veteran organizations.”
The SLTC is conducting the assessment in collaboration with the Montana Veteran’s Affairs Division.
The survey can also be downloaded online for those who prefer to print a hard copy to submit through the mail.
A detailed report will be provided to the State Administration and Veterans’ Affairs Interim Committee in September.
Smith added that both veterans and non-veterans who would like to offer additional insights on the state of Montana’s veteran long-term care services and supports network can sign up to participate in small focus group discussions. These online discussions will be held via Zoom throughout the month of June. Those who are interested can find a registration link on the survey website.
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