LONG-TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman (LTCO) program was established by federal and state statutes. The LTCO identifies, investigates, and resolves complaints that are made by, or on behalf of residents, and related to action, inaction, or decisions that may adversely affect the health, safety, welfare, and rights of residents of long term care facilities such as nursing homes, adult residential care homes, assisted living facilities, and other long-term care settings.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program Services
If you need information or assistance in the following areas, please contact the LTCO at 586-7268 (Oahu) or by email at [email protected].
- Investigate and resolve problems or complaints about the care or services provided in a long term care facilities;
- Alternatives to nursing home placement;
- Options for paying for long term care;
- Choosing a nursing home;
- Help with initiating a power of attorney or guardianship;
- When can long term care residents refuse treatment;
- What rights nursing home residents have;
- Information, referral, and consultation on any long term care issues.
LONG-TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Volunteer program was created to enhance the LTCO program goals in assuring the rights and well being of residents. Each certified volunteer is required to complete a written application, criminal background check, TB test, 20 hours of classroom training, and 8 hours of on-site orientation. Volunteers are asked to commit to one year with the program.
Once certified, volunteers act as representatives of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program by providing advocacy to residents during weekly confidential face-to-face visits. The purpose of these visits is to help promote the quality of life and care that residents are entitled to under federal and state laws. Certified volunteers meet monthly with Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program staff to share information and discuss their findings.
If you are interested in becoming a Long Term Care Ombudsman volunteer, please call the Executive Office on Aging at 586-0100 (Oahu).