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102 Sharron Avenue
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
(518) 563-9058 Voice & TTY
(518) 563-0292 Fax
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© 2007, North Country Center
for Independence, Ltd.
Updated: 7 / 27 / 07
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Long Term Care Ombudsman Program
What in the world is an Ombudsman?
Om-buds-man: an Old Swedish term meaning "representative". Okay, so what does this mean for us? A Long Term Care Ombudsman is an advocate for residents of nursing homes, adult homes and assisted living facilities. Ombudsmen are trained to resolve problems. If you want, the Ombudsman can assist you with complaints. All matters are kept confidential unless you give permission for the Ombudsman to share your concerns.
Under the Federal Older Americans Act, every state is required to leave an Ombudsman Program. Most localities have a program for their area. In Clinton County, the Office for the Aging contracts with the North Country Center for Independence to carry out the Ombudsman Program. You will see Alan Bechard's name and phone number, 518-562-1732, on Ombudsman signs posted at each facility. Alan, along with other NCCI staff and a group of certified volunteers, visit area nursing homes, adult homes and assisted living facilities.
These dedicated Ombudsmen:
Help resolve complaints made by or for residents
Educate consumers and providers about residents' rights and good care practices
Provide public information on long term care facilities and residents' rights
Advocate for residents' rights and quality care
Help promote the development of family and resident councils
An Ombudsman can address a variety of concerns, including violation of rights or dignity, poor quality of care, improper transfers or discharges, concerns about medicine or restraints, and concerns about quality of life.
By all means, visit friends and family in nursing homes and other facilities. They will appreciate the visit. If you do have any concerns, please do call the Ombudsman. Addressing a concern when it is still small may help prevent future problems. If your loved one seems to be recovering and you can see potential for their return to the community, the Ombudsman may be able to help.
Audio file of Ombudsman brochure - [Long Term Care Ombudsman Program]
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