Ask an Ombudsman
Volunteers advocating for Florida’s long-term care residents answer your questions regarding the health, safety, welfare, and rights of residents in long-term care facilities.
Sponsored by: Sam Golden, Ronnie Ostrow and Pauline Ogus Aberdeen’s Certified Ombudsman
Q: Who runs the Ombudsman Program?
A: Florida’s Ombudsman Program is administered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs. The State Ombudsman is responsible for the overall functioning of the program. He does so through 17 district offices located throughout the state. A District Ombudsman Manager runs each local office. How-ever, the Ombudsman Program relies on volunteers to carry out the program’s mission of advocacy. The Ombudsman Program has over 300 certified volunteer ombudsmen ready and willing to advocate for long-term care residents.
For more information about the Ombudsman Program, visit the program’s website at http://ombudsman.myflorida.com
Q: Can I volunteer with the Ombudsman Program? Are there any prerequisites to become a volunteer ombudsman?
A: ABSOLUTELY! The Ombudsman Program is always seeking volunteers to help advocate for residents! Interested applicants can submit an application, which is found on the program’s website, or by calling 1-888-831-0404.
Although prior professional experience is beneficial, one does not need experience in any particular field to become a volunteer ombudsman. You will receive all the information you need to know about advocating for long-term care residents during your certification training. As a certified ombudsman, you will also have the support of your local district office at any time.
Ms. Stania Rodriquez is the regional manager for Palm Beach Council Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.
To ask for an ombudsman’s assistance, learn more about the program, or to become a volunteer ombudsman, toll-free at 1-888-831-0404.