Ombudsman Program

Who are ombudsmen?
Ombudsmen are men and women trained to respond to the problems and needs of residents of nursing facilities and other long-term care facilities.

What do ombudsmen do?
Ombudsmen work to assure that residents receive the best possible care and that they are treated with respect and dignity.ÿ Ombudsmen work with residents, their families, facilities, community organizations, and other interested parties to address concerns that affect the lives of residents.ÿ Ombudsmen listen, provide information, and assist residents in solving problems.

What kinds of problems do ombudsmen respond to?
Ombudsmen are interested in any problem, complaint or concern a resident may have.ÿ Common problems are with the quality of care, food, finances, activities, visitation, and the ability to exercise their rights as a resident or citizen.

Who should contact an ombudsman?
Anyone who has questions or concerns about the care or treatment a resident is receiving should contact an ombudsman.

About the ombudsman program?
Federal law requires every state to operate an ombudsman program.ÿ It''s purpose is to ensure that residents of long-term care facilities receive the best possible care and that their rights are protected and promoted. The Louisiana Ombudsman Program fulfills that purpose by:

• Investigating and resolving problems, including complaints against a facility or public agency.

• Advocating for resident rights and improvements in care and quality of life.

• Educating the public, caregivers and the residents themselves about their rights and efforts to improve care.

• Informing lawmakers and public agencies about ways to improve care.

How do you contact an ombudsman?
Ombudsmen visit facilities regularly.ÿ You can talk to the ombudsman during one of these regular visits or you get the name and number of the ombudsman in your area by calling 1-800-259-4990