The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program serves as a voice for the people living in certified long-term care establishments, guaranteeing their physical well-being, security, welfare, and liberties. Ombudsmen act as representatives for those in nursing homes, assisted living communities, and other certified adult long-term care facilities.
Established in 1972 as a trial project, the Ombudsman program has now spread to every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Guam with the authorization of the OAA (Older Americans Act (OAA), Title VII, Chapter 2, Sections 711/712). Each state has an Office of the State LTC Ombudsman, managed by a full-time State LTC Ombudsman, who guides the program in the entire state. Ombudsmen employ staff and recruit thousands of volunteers to offer direct services to residents.
Under the Ombudsman's Act, Ombudsman programs must:- Identify, probe, and address grievances voiced by or on behalf of inhabitants;
- Furnish citizens with facts about Long Term Support Services
- Guarantee that inhabitants can get quick and steady access to ombudsman assistance
- Advocate for the rights of residents when dealing with state organizations and strive for administrative, legal, and other alternatives to guard inhabitants
- Scrutinize, comment on, and advocate for changes in laws and regulations connected to the health, safety, welfare, and rights of residents
