Washington State Long Term Care Obudsman Program

Under the federal Older Americans Act, every state is required to have an Office of the LTC Ombudsman to address complaints and advocate for improvements in the long-term care system. The creation and duties of the Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman are contained in Washington state law at RCW 43.190 and implementing regulations at WAC 365.18.060. Among our duties, we are charged with:

• Coordinating the activities of all long-term care ombudsmen throughout the state,
• Protecting the confidentiality of records,
• Establishing a statewide uniform reporting system to collect and analyze data relating to complaints and conditions in facilities, and
• Providing resources to empower individuals, families, and the community to ensure the safety and dignity of all residents in long-term care settings.

In addition to receiving and responding to complaints filed with our office, we also conduct independent research and advocate before the legislature on behalf of the dignity and quality of life of all people receiving care in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and boarding and adult family homes. We monitor the work of state agencies that manage facility licensing, inspections, complaint investigations, and enforcements and their policy and regulatory development.

The Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is operated by the Multi-Service Center, a private non-profit located in Federal Way, Washington. To learn more about the Multi-service center visit MSChelps.org.