Definition of Ombudsman | Ombudsman Volunteer | Technical Assistance
Choosing Long Term Care

RESIDENTS' RIGHTS

Residents' Rights are part of the federal Nursing Home Reform Law enacted in 1987 in the Social Security Act. The law requires nursing homes to “promote and protect the rights of each resident” and places a strong emphasis on individual dignity and self-determination. Nursing homes must meet residents' rights requirement if they participate in Medicare or Medicaid.
Residents' Rights:

• To be informed of rights
• To be told of all services available and all costs
• Participate in treatment plan
• Receive reasonable notice of transfer or discharge
• To file grievances without fear of retaliation
• Manage personal affairs
• Free of mental and physical abuse and of restraints
• Personal and medical records treated as confidential
• To be treated with respect and dignity
• Free from requirement to perform work
• Receive visitors of your choice and unopened mail
• Participate in activities of choice
• Retain and use personal possessions
• Private visits & telephone communications
• To have your choice of pharmacy and physician
• Reasonable accommodation for your needs and preferences

For more information on Residents' Rights contact:
Trisha Dodd e-mail:  ombudsmanb@grandgateway.org
Lahona Young e-mail:  ombudsmana@grandgateway.org
Oklahoma Senior Info-Line 1-800-211-2116 Nationwide 1-800-482-4594

Definition of Ombudsman | Ombudsman Volunteer | Technical Assistance
Choosing Long Term Care