In Colorado, long term care ombudsmen are advocates for individuals living in licensed nursing homes and assisted living facilities. They are free, confidential, resident-directed advocates, which means they follow the direction of residents when resolving complaints and addressing concerns. If a resident is unable to give informed consent, ombudsman may be able to work with a resident’s legal authority, such as a power of attorney or guardian.
Some of the responsibilities include:
Investigating and resolving complaints on behalf of residents
Ombudsman receive calls from residents, staff, family members, friends, and community members regarding issues residents may be facing in long-term care facilities. The ombudsman either visit residents in person or contact them by phone to discuss their concerns and determine how they would like to be assisted. In some cases, residents may decline assistance due to concerns about retaliation.
Examples of common complaints include:
- Lack of personal care: For example, if a resident has not had a shower for weeks, with the resident’s consent, ombudsman would work with both the resident and facility staff to develop and ensure adherence to an appropriate shower schedule.
- 30-day discharge notices: When residents receive a discharge notice and do not want to leave the facility, ombudsman inform them of their rights, the regulations related to discharges, and the appeal process. Ombudsman can assist by meeting with residents and staff to discuss alternatives and ensure proper procedures are followed. Ombudsman can also help escalate concerns to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment when appropriate.
- Maintaining a regular presence in facilities and observing care conditions: Ombudsman conduct unannounced monthly visits to nursing homes and quarterly visits to assisted living facilities. During these visits, ombudsman speak with residents, visitors, and staff, observe facility cleanliness, and identify potential safety concerns.
- Educating and empowering residents, families, and the community: Ombudsman provide education on residents’ rights, abuse prevention, care planning, and resources for choosing a long-term care facility. Ombudsman also attend community meetings and participate in resident and family council meetings when invited by residents.
Under the Older Americans Act, every state is required to have a Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program that addresses complaints and advocates for improvements in the long-term care system. Each state has an Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, led by a full-time State Long-Term Care Ombudsman who directs the program statewide.
The Older Americans Act establishes the responsibilities of the long-term care ombudsman, requiring the program to advocate for the rights, health, safety, and well-being of residents in long-term care settings through complaint resolution, education, and systemic advocacy.
Ombudsman follow federal laws as well as state policies and procedures that outline ethical standards, conflict-of-interest requirements, and confidentiality protections.
If you have questions or concerns, you may reach a long term care ombudsman for El Paso, Park and Teller counties at (719) 301-6388.