Long Term Care Resident Advocacy
EDUCATING, EMPOWERING & ADVOCATING
FIGHTING FOR IMPROVED QUALITY OF LIFE
PROTECTING RESIDENTS’ RIGHTS
EARLY INTERVENTION
FAQs
The ombudsmen in the program are professionally trained and certified volunteer advocates. These advocates investigate and resolve complaints made by or on behalf of residents; promote the development of resident and family councils; and inform government agencies, providers and the general public about issues and concerns impacting residents of long-term care facilities with a goal of effecting systems-level change.
Anyone who has questions or concerns pertaining to the care/treatment in a nursing home or assisted living facility can contact the Ombudsman program. For nursing homes and assisted living facilities in Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, and Niagara Counties, please contact People Inc. at 716-817-9222. For inquiries outside our covered counties, please contact the State LTCOP program at 1-855-582-6769.
No. Ombudsmen work to promote and protect the rights of nursing home and assisted living residents. Ombudsman work with residents, their family, facilities, and other interested parties to address concerns of nursing home and assisted living residents. Ombudsman investigate and resolve complaints, educate residents and facility staff on resident rights, and advocate for quality care. In situations where the Ombudsman is unable to resolve a resident complaint, the LTCOP will link the resident to the appropriate resource for further assistance.
Ombudsmen respond to any concern, complaint, or problem a resident may have. Common problems include: quality of care, visitation rights, food, and resident rights. Confidentiality is the cornerstone of the LTCOP and all resident concerns, complaints, or problems remain confidential unless the resident consents to disclosure.