Ombudsmen work with residents, families, facility providers, and staff to address concerns and eliminate abuse, neglect, and exploitation of long-term care residents. They provide a local presence in long-term care facilities, and work with state agencies and stakeholders to make improvements in long-term care laws, regulations, and practices.

 

Please call the statewide hotline (1-800-562-6028) for questions or concerns about residents in long term care facilities.

 

 

The Department of Commerce contracts with the Multi-Service Center to manage the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program, employ staff, and provide statewide assistance through regional offices. Legal services are also subcontracted to provide assistance to staff and residents.

 

The Multi-Service Center provides policy direction and oversight of the regional offices, they train and certify volunteer Ombudsmen, and they work with statewide advocacy groups.

 

The program is funded through the federal Older Americans Act, state funds, and local contributions.

 

 

Please email Maitri Sojourner or call her at 360-725-2851.