Assessing the Health Needs of Montana Veterans: A Community-Based Participatory Approach

We used a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach to develop and conduct a mixed-methods needs assessment with a sample of 36 veterans. We gathered data using the Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36), focus groups, and individual interviews. The sample SF-36 mean scores were significantly higher than the general population average for general health, but lower for role limitations due to emotional problems, vitality, and social functioning. The qualitative data revealed three significant health needs for the veterans: (a) access to mental health services, (b) barriers to social participation, and (c) the importance of nature-based occupations. Findings suggest that occupation-based interventions, administered in the natural environment, targeting rural veterans' mental health and social participation, could help improve their access to needed mental health care.