The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) conducts annual Resident Quality of Life Surveys and Family Satisfaction Surveys in nursing facilities to collect opinions, feedback, and personal experiences that help guide improvements to aging and disability care across Minnesota. DHS has conducted the resident survey in nursing facilities since 2005 and the family survey since 2010. Medicaid-certified nursing homes with a capacity to serve seven or more residents are required to participate in this annual survey.

Vital Research

DHS contracts with Vital Research, an independent survey firm, to conduct the surveys and ensure the confidentiality of all resident and family responses. Vital Research's responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Training field staff
• Scheduling interviews
• Providing ongoing support
• Quality assurance monitoring

Vital Research works collaboratively with DHS throughout the entire length of the project.

Survey Schedules

Vital Research will reach out to nursing facilities between September 2025 and January 2026 to schedule interview dates and answer questions that the facilities, residents, and family members have. Nursing home resident interviews will take place October 2025 through January 2026. Family surveys will be mailed to residents' representatives from November 2025 through February 2026.

Results

DHS will share resident and family survey results on the Nursing Home Report Card by Summer of 2026. For assistance using the Nursing Home Report Card website,, please contact Teresa Lewis at Teresa.Lewis@state.mn.us or 651-431-4208.

Questions?

Visit the Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to commonly asked questions about the project.