Nursing home disputes can arise at any given time and for any reason. Most disputes can be resolved by meeting with staff and management, but some may involve intervention by another party in order to reach an amicable resolution. When a nursing home dispute reaches an impasse, it may be time to bring in the ombudsman assigned to the facility.
An ombudsman is advocate for nursing home, assisted living and board-and-care home residents. Under the Older Americans Act, every state is required to have an ombudsmen program that addresses nursing home complaints. An ombudsman is specially trained to resolve in resolving nursing home disputes. An ombudsman also educates consumers and long-term care providers about residents’ rights and good care practices, which is especially beneficially if you suspect your loved one’s rights have been compromised.
In addition to helping resolve nursing home disputes, an ombudsman can provide assistance in finding a nursing home for your elderly loved one. He or she can provide information on nursing home and long-term care facilities in your area, alternatives to nursing home care and information on legislative and policy issues.
