Ombudsman is a Swedish word meaning citizen's representative. Long Term Care Ombudsmen serve as advocates who seek to resolve complaints made by or on behalf of people who are consumers of Long Term Care services.

• Receives, investigates, and attempts to resolve problems or complaints affecting residents of Long Term Care Facilities
• Answers questions and provides information and referral about Long-Term Care and related services.
• Promotes resident, family and community involvement in Long-Term Care.
• Promotes community education and awareness of the needs of residents.
• Coordinates efforts with other agencies and organizations concerned with Long Term Care.
• Identifies issues and problem areas in Long Term Care and recommends needed changes.

Ombudsman Services Are Free And Confidential!

• Residents or potential residents of Long-Term Care facilities.
• Relatives or friends of Long-Term Care residents.
• Long-Term Care employees and administrators.
• Representatives of agencies and professional groups.
• Members of community groups or citizens interested in improving Long-Term Care.
• ANYONE!

Northwest Indiana Community Action Corporation sponsors services to the residents of Jasper, Lake, Newton, Porter, Pulaski and Starke Counties.

You have the right to:

• Be informed about and exercise your rights;
• Control your finances/know about services/ financial charges;
• Participate in planning your care and treatment;
• Refuse treatment;
• Confidentiality/Privacy of records;
• Appeal as well as receive information on admissions, transfers and discharges.
• Freedom from abuse, neglect and exploitation; freedom from chemical and physical restraints;
• Express grievances without fear of retaliation;
• Communicate freely with ANYONE!

For more information, please contact Northwest Indiana Community Action Corporation (NWICA) concerning Local Ombudsman.

OR

State Long Term Care Ombudsman
Ph: 317.232.7134
Toll-Free: 800.622.4484
Email: afranklin@fssa.state.in.us