What is An Ombudsman?
The word Ombudsman is Scandinavian.  In this country the word has come to mean an advocate or helper.  An Ombudsman protects and promotes the rights of long-term care consumers, working with residents and their families to achieve quality care and quality of life.  The program is required by both federal and state law.  In Wisconsin the Board on Aging and Long Term Care operates the program statewide.
Services are provided at no charge.

How Can An Ombudsman Help?
An ombudsman can answer questions about care options, such as community care, community-based residential facilities (group homes) or nursing homes.  The ombudsman can investigate complaints in these long-term care setting, and suggest solutions.  They can help residents and families avoid, resolve, and help prevent problems  from becoming crisis.  Promoting the rights of nursing home and CBRF residents and improving their quality of life is important to them. They can speak to facility or community groups about long-term care issues.

Who Can Contact An Ombudsman?
Anyone who has questions or concerns about the rights of long term care consumers or suspects that someone in a long term care setting is not receiving proper care may contact an ombudsman.

How Do I Find An Ombudsman?
WI State Board on Aging and Long Term Care ----------------800-815-0015