A Long-Term Care Ombudsman serves as an advocate who seeks to resolve complaints made by or on behalf of people who are consumers of Long-Term Care services.
When entering a long-term care facility, residents not only retain rights as citizens but also have many more rights and protections under state and federal law. Some of these rights are the following:
- Knowing about services and financial charges.
- Privacy.
- Participation in planning their care and treatment.
- Refusal of treatment.
- Being informed about and exercise their rights.
- Control of finances.
- Being free from abuse, neglect and exploitation.
- Being allowed to speak freely with persons of their choice.
- Freedom from chemical and physical restraints.
- Confidentiality of records.
- Allowed to express grievances without fear of retaliation.
- Knowledge of admissions, transfers and discharges including the right to appeal.
The Ombudsman/Attorney can assist with matters that include but not limited to; Medicaid, Medicare, Veterans Benefits, transfers/discharges from Long-Term care facilities, senior and community based housing information, elder law, and assist with information and referral services.
Anyone with concerns about the rights of residents in Bartholomew, Jackson, Jennings, Decatur, or Brown County long-term care facilities can contact the Ombudsman/Attorney for assistance. To make a referral or to speak with the ombudsman please call 812-314-2727