Regional Ombudsman

An Ombudsman is an advocate for residents in Long Term Care Facilities. The Ombudsman investigates complaints in reference to resident care, physician services, resident’s rights, food and nutrition, medications, transfers and discharges.

The North Carolina Ombudsman Program was established by the Older Americans Act. The State Long Term Care Ombudsman is located within the North Carolina Division of Aging in Raleigh.

The Ombudsman assists the resident and family members in the resolution of concerns relating to long term care. Acting as advocates for the resident the Ombudsman works with the Community Advisory Committee volunteers which they train to ensure that residents rights are not violated, explores concerns of residents and family members, mediates disputes, provides technical assistance to residents, families and long term care staff in the areas of care planning, transfers, discharges, placement, and financial benefits.

Ombudsman work to educate the public on long term care issues and promotes increased community involvement.