What is one of the responsibilities of local long-term care ombudsman councils?

Local long-term care ombudsman councils play a crucial role in advocating for residents of long-term care facilities. Their primary responsibility is to carry out program duties within communities, which includes a variety of tasks aimed at ensuring the well-being of residents. This involves visiting facilities, listening to residents' concerns, providing information about their rights, and facilitating resolutions to issues that may arise.

Through these activities, ombudsman councils serve as liaisons between residents and the facilities, helping to enhance the quality of care and address grievances. Their work is vital in promoting resident-centered care and fostering an environment where the rights and needs of residents are prioritized. This engagement helps to ensure that the voices of those living in long-term care facilities are heard and respected.

In contrast, providing direct care, enforcing regulations, or handling court cases fall outside the scope of their responsibilities. Ombudsman councils do not provide direct healthcare services, enforce laws or regulations, nor participate in legal proceedings, which differentiates their role within the community.