An Ombudsman acts as a mediator and advocate for residents and our families. They help us resolve issues on our own, and only intervene on our behalf with our permission.
Residents of long-term care facilities and assisted living residences need an advocate who is looking out for their rights and interests.
Our Ombudsman Programs advocate for the rights, dignity, and quality of care for individuals living in long-term care settings, including Skilled Nursing Facilities, Rest Homes, and Assisted Living Residences. Ombudsmen are trained volunteers who receive state-provided instruction focused on facility regulations and resident rights. They visit facilities regularly, listen to concerns, and work with residents, families, and staff to help resolve issues related to care, safety, and quality of life.
Springwell’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program covers all nursing homes, rest homes, and long-term care facilities located in our 22-town service area. Highly trained and supervised volunteers visit a facility at least weekly and are available to hear concerns in confidence, advocate to protect residents’ rights, and provide information and referrals.
Springwell’s Assisted Living Ombudsman Program is in place to offer residents and potential residents of assisted living facilities a way to maintain control of their lives just as they did in their former homes. When problems arise, the Assisted Living Ombudsman can step in with the resident’s permission to attempt to resolve the issues at hand. The Assisted Living Ombudsman Program is designed to provide assisted living residents, their families, and other concerned parties with a vehicle to communicate and resolve their concerns and complaints regarding assisted living residences.
Springwell Ombudsman are carefully screened, trained, and supervised. Many have been working in the same facility for a number of years and have built a wealth of experience in listening, solving problems, and working with staff and residents for the best possible outcome in times of conflict or concern.
Springwell is always looking for volunteers for our Ombudsman Programs.
Interested in the Ombudsman Program? Call Springwell at (617) 926-4100 Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and request the Assisted Living or Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program Manager, or fill out and submit this contact form.