About the Program
Since 1972, the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program has strived to improve the quality of care and quality of life experienced by residents who live in licensed nursing homes, homes for the aged, and adult foster care homes.
Local ombudsmen (paid staff and volunteers) advocate for the resident as directed and guided by the wishes of the resident and only with resident consent. All services are provided under strict confidentiality. Ombudsmen cannot share information about the resident or the resident’s concerns without the resident’s permission. Ombudsmen are not mandatory reporters for abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
The program also aims to improve the long term care system, speaking for the passage of laws, regulations, and policies benefiting over 105,000 Michigan long term care residents. The Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program is funded by the federal and state government. There is no cost to residents or families for ombudsman services.
Ombudsmen empower and support residents by
- Protecting residents’ rights
- Promoting dignity and choice
- Meeting privately with residents
- Assisting residents to identify and resolve concerns
- Helping residents file complaints and appeals
- Connecting residents to legal and community resources
- Clarifying policies, rules, and regulations
- Providing education on long term care
- Encouraging innovation and quality
Review Our Program Brochure
Our Commitment
1. Ensure residents of marginalized populations have a voice in advocating for themselves
2. Provide advocacy for good care and the protection of resident rights
3. Improve the quality of long term care both locally and systemically
4. Advocate for increased access to resources and more options of homes from which to choose
Meet the MLTCOP Staff
Meet the people that make it all possible
Program Highlights
Read annual reports and learn about our program