Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is run by the County of San Diego’s Health and Human Services Agency. Ombudsman volunteers and staff advocate for people who live in residential care and skilled nursing facilities. They try to improve the lives of residents by:

  • Providing a regular presence in the facilities
  • Providing information and assistance
  • Speaking up for the residents
  • Investigating and resolving complaints

Residents, their relatives, and friends are encouraged to call on the Ombudsman for any question or situation regarding:

  • The quality of care in a facility
  • Resident rights
  • Physical abuse or neglect
  • Diet and nutrition
  • Financial issues including billing, financial exploitation, and benefits compensation
  • The use of physical or chemical restraints
  • Privacy and confidentiality
  • Transfers and discharges

The Ombudsman is also called in to witness the signing of advance directives for healthcare and to support resident and family councils.

You may visit the Ombudsman Program’s web site at:
http://www.sandiegocounty.gov/hhsa/programs/ais/ombudsman_long_term_care/index.html