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Advocacy · state

Washington Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

WA State Long-Term Care Ombudsman (operated by Multi-Service Center)

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for residents of long-term care facilities, protecting and promoting Resident Rights guaranteed under federal and state law. The program receives and responds to complaints, conducts independent research, advocates before the legislature, and monitors state agencies that license and inspect facilities. The state-level office coordinates a statewide network of regional and volunteer ombudsmen, maintains a uniform complaint/reporting system, and protects records confidentiality.

Who qualifies

Residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, adult family homes, and boarding homes in Washington State; their family members; and concerned citizens reporting issues on a resident's behalf.

What it covers

Complaint investigation, on-site facility visits, advocacy for resident rights, mediation between residents/families and facility staff, education on rights, policy advocacy.

Cost

Free and confidential. Funded by federal Older Americans Act and state appropriation.

How to apply

Call the statewide info & complaint line, email, or find your regional ombudsman through the program's locator.

Where to get this in Washington

6 organizations deliver this program. Coverage varies, so check the area each one serves.

Source www.waombudsman.org/about/