WHAT DOES AN OMBUDSMAN DO?

What is a Long-Term Care Ombudsman?

A Long-Term Care Ombudsman seeks to improve the quality of life for residents of long-term care facilities. These facilities include nursing homes and personal care homes, often called assisted living facilities and Board and Care Homes in some areas.

What does an Ombudsman do?

  • Investigates and works to resolve problems or complaints affecting long-term care facility residents. 
  • Identifies problem areas in long-term care and advocates for change.
  • Provides information about long-term care and related services.
  • Promotes resident, family, and community involvement in long-term care.
  • Educates the community about the needs of long-term care residents.
  • Coordinates efforts with other agencies concerned with long-term care issues.
  • Visits long-term care facilities routinely to talk to residents and monitor conditions.
  • Educates facility staff about resident rights and other issues.

What Concerns does the LTC Ombudsman Address?

  • Violation of residents’ rights and/or dignity
  • Physical, verbal, or mental abuse; deprivation of services necessary to maintain residents’ physical and mental health; or unreasonable confinement
  • Poor quality of care, including inadequate personal hygiene and slow response to requests for assistance.
  • Improper transfer or discharge of patient
  • Inappropriate use of chemical or physical restraints
  • Any resident concern about quality of care or quality of life 
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