Long-Term Care Ombuds Program (LTCOP)

October is Residents’ Rights Month

Resolves complaints made by, or for, residents of long-term care facilities;
Educates consumers and long-term care providers about residents’ rights and good care practices;
Promotes community involvement through volunteer opportunities;
Provides information to the public on nursing homes and other long-term care facilities and services, residents’ rights, and legislative and policy issues;
Advocates for residents’ rights and quality care in nursing homes, personal care, residential care, and other long-term care facilities;
Promotes the development of citizen organizations, family councils, and resident councils.

Violation of residents’ rights or dignity;
Physical, verbal or mental abuse, deprivation of services necessary to maintain residents’ physical and mental health or unreasonable confinement;
Poor quality of care, including inadequate personal hygiene and slow response to requests for assistance;
Improper transfer or discharge of patient;
Inappropriate use of chemical or physical restraints;
Any resident concern about the quality of care or quality of life.

Residents of any nursing home or “board and care facility,” including assisted living facilities;
A family member or friend of a nursing home resident;
A nursing home administrator or employee with a concern about a resident at their facility;
Any individual or citizen’s group interested in the welfare of residents;
Individuals and families who are considering long-term placement.

For information on the program, including how to volunteer in your area, please contact:

Amber Garrotte
360-538-8877
360-986-0657

Edward Guzman
360-207-5493
360-461-7180