Multi-Service Center/ Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

"Ensuring the rights, dignity, and well-being of individuals living in long-term care today and tomorrow.” The Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman advocates for residents of nursing homes, adult family homes, and assisted living facilities. Our purpose is to protect and promote the Resident Rights guaranteed these residents under Federal and State law and regulations. We are trained to receive complaints and resolve problems in situations involving quality of care, use of restraints, transfer and discharge, abuse and other aspects of resident dignity and rights.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman Volunteer responsibilities Include: Spend an average of 4-6 hours per week at long- term care facilities, visiting with residents to identify complaints and concerns. Investigate the facts when a complaint is received, and work with the resident and facility staff to resolve it. Complete 32 hours of training. Training includes on-site visits and homework. Attend monthly volunteer and in-service training meetings.