Understanding Veterans in New York: A Needs Assessment of Veterans Recently Separated from the Military.

Abstract

Over the past decade, there has been increased awareness that U.S. military veterans often grapple with significant mental and physical health issues related to their service. In response, many policies and programs have been put in place to support veterans and improve their access to needed services. Despite these efforts, prevalence rates for physical and mental health problems and concerns about the health and overall well-being of veterans remain high. Because the specific needs of veterans and the barriers to accessing care likely differ across areas, data at the state level are critical for tailoring policies and programs to make them more effective. This study focuses on veterans in New York, specifically individuals discharged or separated from the military between January 2018 and January 2023. The authors analyzed responses from 1,122 veterans to a survey designed to assess the mental and physical health of this cohort of veterans and their access to, and experiences with, health care and other veteran services. The findings of this study will be of particular interest to policymakers, veterans' advocacy groups, and health care providers who are involved in the design and delivery of services for veterans. Additionally, researchers and academics focusing on social and economic well-being, public health, and veteran affairs will find the data and conclusions useful for further studies.