AG Drummond announces changes to LTC advocacy program

On By Karl

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – The Attorney General’s Office announced Friday that the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program will now operate within the Attorney General’s Office.

The program is designed to investigate and resolve complaints about long-term care facilities, according to the AG’s office. Change is coming soon Senate Bill 1709 The move from the Oklahoma Department of Human Services to the Attorney General’s Office is permitted.

Drummond says the “Older Americans Act” requires all states to have a program to address complaints and advocate for improvements in the long-term care system.

“By integrating this vital program into our office, we will enhance our ability to investigate complaints, advocate for the rights of residents, and ensure the highest standards of care in our nursing homes and assisted living facilities,” said Attorney General Gentner Drummond.

“This move aligns with our mission to protect Oklahomans and allows us to bring additional resources and oversight to the critical work of protecting our senior citizens.”

The program helps Oklahomans in the following ways:

  • Resolves complaints filed by or on behalf of residents of long-term care facilities.

  • Educates consumers and long-term care providers about residents’ rights and good care practices.

  • Promotes community involvement through volunteer opportunities.

  • Provides public information on nursing homes and other long-term care facilities and services, residents’ rights, and legislation and policy issues.

  • Advocates for residents’ rights and quality care in nursing homes, personal care, residential care, and other long-term care facilities.

  • The Oklahoma Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is supported by local volunteers dedicated to improving the lives of older people in institutions.

To learn how to volunteer, call 800-211-2116.

To file a complaint against a long-term facility, email [email protected].
For more information about the Oklahoma Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, visit: oklahoma.gov/oag/ltco.

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