Vail Health has initiated its biannual behavioral health survey, inviting residents of Eagle County and Summit County to share their perspectives on mental health needs. This survey, which is open until February 7, 2026, aims to gather community insights that will inform how Vail Health allocates funding for behavioral health programs.
The survey targets individuals aged 18 and older, whether they live or work in Eagle County. Additionally, a parallel survey is available for Summit County residents and employees, as well as for eight other mountain resort communities. According to Dana Erpelding, Vail Health’s vice president of behavioral health operations, “The purpose of the survey is to evaluate behavioral health needs and perspectives of community members in Eagle County.”
Understanding Community Needs
This anonymous survey covers a range of topics, including community connections, quality of life, and health needs related to behavioral health and alcohol use. Since its inception in 2020, the survey has been conducted every two years in partnership with the Katz Amsterdam Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to addressing behavioral health and substance abuse issues in mountain communities. The foundation, established by Rob Katz and Elana Amsterdam, plays a crucial role in shaping the survey questions, which have remained consistent to track changes over time.
The initial survey was conducted just before the COVID-19 pandemic, providing valuable insight into community behavioral health needs prior to the crisis. The data collected is instrumental in assessing whether local programs effectively meet current needs and helps evaluate the success of various interventions.
Erpelding noted the significance of the data: “We’ve also been able to compare that data to other mountain communities, and where we’ve seen significant progress due to various programs that we’ve implemented, we’ve been able to share those lessons learned.” This collaborative approach aims to uplift communities that may be struggling with similar challenges.
Investment in Behavioral Health Resources
The survey results will play a vital role in determining how Vail Health invests its behavioral health resources. Over recent years, the organization has focused on enhancing positive behavioral health outcomes by employing additional therapists, psychiatrists, case managers, and school-based clinicians. The Katz Amsterdam Foundation contributes approximately $500,000 annually to support behavioral health initiatives within Eagle County.
This funding aids local partners like My Future Pathways and RECONNECTED, which work toward similar goals. Erpelding highlighted a historical gap in substance use programs, particularly regarding alcohol use, within the mountain community. The survey data has driven investments to address these needs, benefiting both local organizations and residents.
Survey organizers are targeting a minimum of 800 responses to ensure a diverse range of perspectives. The survey takes around 10 to 15 minutes to complete and is available in both English and Spanish. Erpelding emphasized the importance of community participation: “Honest feedback helps us to understand what’s working, where our gaps remain, and how we can better support the mental wellbeing of people in our community.”
The results of the survey are expected to be released in the spring or early summer of 2026, providing critical insights that will shape behavioral health care in Eagle County for the following two years. Individuals interested in participating can access the survey at VailHealthBH.org/Encuesta-Comunitaria. Responses are recorded anonymously, ensuring privacy for all participants.
