Ombudsman is a Swedish term for a person who acts as an impartial third party in mediating problems. In short, an ombudsman is a go between.

The long-term care Ombudsman is available to assist residents of nursing homes, specialty care assisted living facilities, and assisted living facilities with their complaints. The Ombudsman will thoroughly investigate and attempt to resolve all complaints received.

The Ombudsman is trained and certified by the Alabama Department of Senior Services according to standards set out in the Long-Term Residential Health Care Recipient Ombudsman Act.

The Ombudsman also works with interested citizens, providers of long-term care, and other professional groups to promote the well being and quality of life for residents of long-term care facilities. This program is part of Alabama's continuing effort to improve conditions for and services to the elderly.

You can use the Ombudsman service if you are:

1. A resident in a long-term care facility and have a question or problem about the care you are receiving, about your rights, about Medicaid or Medicare payments and other benefits to which you are entitled.
2. A relative or friend of someone residing in a long-term health care facility that has a question or wishes to discuss a problem on behalf of a resident.

Local Ombudsman:
SARCOA
Post Office Drawer 1886
Dothan, Alabama 36302
Telephone: (334)793-6843 or (800)239-3507
Serving Barbour, Coffee, Covington , Dale, Geneva , Henry, and Houston counties

Alabama Department of Senior Services
770 Washington Avenue, Suite 470
Montgomery , Alabama 36130-1851
Telephone: (334)242-5743

The National Citizens' Coalition for Nursing Home Reform (NCCNHR) was formed because of public concern about substandard care in nursing homes. If you are interested in learning more about NCCNHR visit their website at www.nccnhr.org