The Boulder County Long-Term Care Ombudsman (LTCO) Program is a free, confidential service for residents of nursing homes and assisted living homes. Residents of these homes have Federally regulated rights, Long Term Care Ombudsmen advocate for these rights, working with and for residents to achieve quality of care and life. The services of the Ombudsman can be used by residents, their friends and relatives, staff, and the general public.
Three Key Tenets of the Ombudsman Program:
- Confidential: The Ombudsman program is a confidential service and we do not take any action until directed to do so by the resident. If a resident has cognitive impairments that would prevent them from giving us permission to act on their behalf, then we will take direction from the Power of Attorney.
- Resident Rights: Uphold regulations related to resident rights in long-term care. Residents have the right to make their own decisions related to their care, medical treatment, preferences, food they eat, how they spend their time, etc.
- Expressed Interest vs. Best Interest: The Ombudsman program will always advocate for what the resident wants which is their “expressed Interest.” This can sometimes be different from what the medical community thinks is in the residents “best interest.” The Ombudsman takes direction from the resident and how they would like the program to assist and advocate for them. At all times the resident decides on the ombudsman’s level of involvement.
How the Ombudsman Team Can Help You or Your Loved One:
- Help residents link to resources and services
- Identify, investigate, and problem-solve residents’ concerns about care and their rights as residents
- Assist staff in meeting the needs and concerns of residents through education and consultation
- Provide information to the community about long-term care and about local options
- Train residents, community members, facility staff on resident rights, regulations, and other topics related to long term care
To Contact an Ombudsman:
Phone: 303-441-1173
Email: infoLTCO@bouldercounty.gov
