The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services is encouraging Montana’s veterans to participate in a 10-minute online survey designed to collect information that will help inform future long-term care needs of veterans in the state.

Approval for conducting the Veterans’ Long-Term Care Needs Survey was established through House Bill 264, signed by Gov. Greg Gianforte in April of 2023.

“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,” Barb Smith, senior and long term care administrator, said in a release.

The survey is available online here and the deadline to participate has been extended to May 31.

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, according to DPHHS.

“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 in a release. “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.