Long-Term Care Ombudsman

What this program is, in plain English

Every state has a Long-Term Care Ombudsman program. An ombudsman is an advocate for residents of nursing homes, assisted living, and board and care homes. They investigate complaints about care, staffing, food, missing belongings, an improper discharge, or a resident's rights being ignored. They work for the resident, not the facility and not the state licensing agency, and they will keep your name confidential if you ask. There is no charge. Families often escalate to state licensing when the ombudsman is the faster and more effective first call.

What you actually get

Free, confidential investigation and advocacy on complaints about a long-term care facility, including fighting an improper discharge.

Who qualifies

• Income limit: Not yet verified — call to confirm
• Available to any resident of a long-term care facility and to their family or representative. No age or income test.

What to have ready

• Notes about what happened, with dates
• Any discharge or transfer notice

How to apply

This program is run by State Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs, funded by the Administration for Community Living. Most decisions take Ombudsmen commonly respond within a few days, faster for a discharge notice.