What is an Ombudsman? 2014

The focus of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman’s Office is to advocate for the rights and wishes of residents and tenants in long-term care. In fact, resident’s rights are guaranteed by the federal 1987 Nursing Home Reform Law. This law requires nursing facilities to promote and protect the rights of each resident and places a strong emphasis on individual dignity and self-determination. Iowa has incorporated these rights into state law for residential care and nursing facility residents, assisted living and elder group home tenants. The Long-Term Ombudsman helps residents, tenants, and their families and friends understand and exercise these guaranteed rights. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman’s responsibilities are outlined in Title VII of the Older Americans Act.