 | Judy Montague is the Director of Nursing at Chaucer Estates Retirement and Assisted Living, located at 10550 E. 21st North in Wichita. Judy loves the assisted living industry and its residents and believes in the philosophy, "The resident always comes first." You can reach Judy at Chaucer Estates (316) 630-8111. |
Senior Living
2005-10-01 14:59:00
What is an LTC Ombudsman?
ANSWER: An Ombudsman, defined, is one who advocates for another. Although many may not be aware of the duties he/she performs in the lives of a long-term care resident, the Ombudsman plays a very important role.The Ombudsman is an employee of the State of Kansas. As an advocate for residents of long-term care facilities; including nursing homes and assisted living facilities, the Ombudsman serves as a problem solver to concerns of the resident and their families; as an educator offering resources; and as an objective investigator to protect the rights of the resident in the event of a concern, question or complaint. If a resident of a long-term care facility or the family of a resident feel that any of their rights have been violated, the Ombudsman is contacted. The Ombudsman helps long-term residents obtain the highest quality of life. In the event that a resident and/or their family suspect that their rights have been violated, contact the Ombudsman immediately. He/she will come to the facility or contact the resident or family member who has expressed concern. No concern is too small or too large to go unreported. The staff of a long-term care facility can also benefit from the Ombudsman. He/she can help the staff and administrators to understand how to best meet the needs and concerns of a resident and reach an equitable solution to problems and concerns.All Residents Have the Right:• To be treated with consideration, respect, and dignity.• To exercise rights as a resident and as a citizen.• To voice grievances without fear of reprisal.• To be free from mental and physical abuse and to be free from chemical and physical restraints.• To have privacy in care and treatment and to associate and communicate privately with whomever they choose.• To manage personal and financial affairs; to make choices and independent decisions. • To keep and use personal belongings and to maintain a secure place for those possessions.• To participate in planning of care and treatment.• To participate in social, religious and community activities; to participate in the resident council.• To be discharged or transferred only for medical reasons, personal welfare or that of others, or for non-payment.To contact an Ombudsman write: Kansas Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, 900 SW Jackson, Suite 1041, Topeka, KS 66612. Or call toll free at (877) 662-8362, or email ltco@state.ks.us
