Long Term Care Ombudsman
Sheila Brooks
Regional Long-Term Care Ombudsman/Manager
803.774.1983
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The Long-Term Care Ombudsman seeks to improve the quality of life and quality of care of residents who live in long term care facilities. The Ombudsman is available to assist residents and their families by advocating to protect their health, safety, well-being, and rights.
The Santee-Lynches Regional Council of Governments' Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program covers four counties in South Carolina: Clarendon, Lee, Kershaw, and Sumter.
HISTORY AND AUTHORITY
The Ombudsman Program is governed by the federal Older Americans Act and by the South Carolina Omnibus Adult Protection Act. The South Carolina Department on Aging administers the statewide program through ten regional offices located throughout the state. There is no cost for services provided by the Ombudsman Program.
What does the Long-Term Care Ombudsman do?
Investigate and work to resolve problems or complaints affecting long-term care residents.
Identify problem areas in long-term care and advocates or mediates for change.
Provide information and referrals regarding long-term care program and related services.
Promote resident, family, and the community involvement in long-term care.
Educate residents, family, staff, and the community on topics affecting long-term care.
Empower residents to advocate for their rights and resolve their complaints.
What type of issues does an Ombudsman Handle?
Residents' Rights
Quality of Care
Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation
Transfers and Discharges
How can I file a complaint?
To file a complaint, please contact Sheila Brooks, Regional Ombudsman at (803)774-1983 or email her at sbrooks@slcog.org
Who can call the Ombudsman?
Residents of Long-Term Care facilities
Friends and relatives of residents
Facility staff members
Community members and others concerned about the welfare of residents in long-term care facilities
“TO THE WORLD YOU MAY BE ONE PERSON, BUT TO ONE PERSON, YOU MAY BE THE WORLD."
-MARK NOLAN
Residents of long term care facilities sometimes have little or no contact to the outside world. More than 50% of nursing home residents have no living close relative, which may be related to the estimate that 60% of nursing home residents have no visitors.
If you are interested in volunteering, our Volunteer Ombudsman Program is a great place to make a difference. A Volunteer Ombudsman visits with residents and diminish the sense of isolation experienced by residents, especially those without family. They provide encouragement and assist the resident in achieving a sense of self-determination. They give residents of a Long Term Care facility a great connection to the community.
If you are interested and want to learn more, contact Amanda Hester, Volunteer Coordinator or Sheila Brooks, Regional Long Term Care Ombudsman.
More information and contact information can be found in our Volunteer Ombudsman Program Brochure.
Additional Information:
Monthly Newsletter
Read more about this legislation here:
Resources
S.C Licensed Health Care Facilities
S.C. Long Term Care Bed Locator
