ALTERNATIVES
Ombudsman
Ombudsman Program
Our Ombudsmen are advocates for residents who live in licensed, long-term care facilities, i.e. nursing homes, shelter care, assisted living, supportive living and group homes. Our program covers the following counties: Rock Island, Henry, Mercer, LaSalle, Putnam, Knox, Henderson, Warren, McDonough and Bureau.
What does an Ombudsman do?
- Visits facilities regularly to inform residents about ombudsman services and resident’s rights.
- Investigate & resolve complaints made by or on behalf of the residents.
- Helps resident & family in getting questions answered and provide individual consultations.
- Provides information on facility selection, different levels of care, regulations, nursing home procedures, Medicare/Medicaid and residents’ rights.
- Provides in-service education to nursing home staff.
- Analyzes federal and state laws, rules and regulations & provides legislative advocacy.
How do you reach an Ombudsman?
To access the assistance of an ombudsman, all you have to do is call Alternatives. Anyone can call and can even remain anonymous if requested. There are a multitude of reasons to call and request the ombudsman’s help including:
- Violation of resident’s rights or dignity.
- Physical, verbal or mental abuse.
- Inadequate or poor quality care.
- Unreasonable confinement.
- Accidents or improper handling.
- Staff shortages and poor staff attitudes.
- Family conflict.
- Involuntary or improper discharge from facility.
- Incompatible roommates.
- Building safety issues, lack of cleanliness, pests.
- Power of Attorney or guardianship issues.
- End of life issues.
Once a referral is made, the ombudsman will visit the individual to determine next steps.
Call (309) 277-0167 or (800) 798-0988
What Happens When I Call?
You will be transferred to the Ombudsmen who will take an initial report and begin follow up for you.
Calls about abuse or neglect in a nursing home should be called into the Illinois Department of Public Health at
1-800-252-4343.
