Ombudsman

What Does an Ombudsman Do?

A Long-term Care Ombudsman is an advocate for residents living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Ombudsmen are trained to provide information and assistance to residents and their families in an effort to ensure the best quality of life possible for residents. They are also trained to resolve conflicts and provide education regarding residents’ rights.

Under the Federal Older Americans Act and state law, Montana is required to have an Ombudsman Program that addresses complaints and provides advocacy and support for each resident in nursing homes and assisted living facilities throughout the state.

A Long-term Care Ombudsman:

• Advocates for residents in Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities
• Addresses complaints or concerns from residents and families
• Assists residents and families in the case of transfer or discharge
• Provides education to residents, LTC staff and the public regarding resident rights
• Provide education to families and individuals about LTC placement

A Long-term Care Ombudsman Addresses:

• Residents’ rights
• Dignity and respect
• Physical, Verbal or Mental abuse
• Quality of care
• Transfer or discharge of resident
• Restraints
• Any resident or family concerns about quality of life

Who Can Use Ombudsman Services?

• Residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities
• Family members or friends of residents living in a nursing homes or assisted living facility
• Concerned staff of a nursing home or assisted living
• Any concerned individual or citizen’s group
• Individuals and families who are considering long-term care

 

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact one of the Ombudsmen for Ravalli County:

Ravalli County Local Long-term Care Ombudsmen
Kati Aiken
310 Old Corvallis Road
Hamilton, MT 59840
1-406-363-5690

State Long-term Care Ombudsman
Jerry Sorensen
PO Box 4210
Helena, MT 59604-4210
1-800-332-2272