How Ombudsman Can Help

Families are relieved to know that help is available and that they can learn to become effective advocates themselves for their loved ones. Ombudsmen empower residents and their families.

For the residents of long-term care facilities and their families, getting to know the Ombudsman provides the security of having a caring advocate available even when a family member is not present, or a resident is afraid of repercussions if he or she complains about a problem, as all complaints are confidential.

Ombudsmen are trained advocates, educated in the needs, rights and issues of residents living in nursing and residential care facilities. They are well-versed in local and state regulations governing long-term care facilities to assist residents and families in asserting their rights. An Ombudsman will:

• Make unannounced regular visits to licensed long-term care facilities in Orange County
• Mediate and attempt to resolve concerns or problems
• Provide unbiased placement information and referrals

The Ombudsman program helps educate families and the community on issues of long-term care and assists the public in making informed decisions in selecting a residential care facility through the Adult Care Information System (ACIS). You may view ACIS summaries, based on the visits of Community Care Licensing, which report serious deficiencies or complaints about residential facilities.

If You Wish to File a Grievance with the Ombudsman Program click here.