Statement by Carol Scott
President
The National Association of State Long-Term Care
Ombudsman Programs (NASOP)
1-800-309-3282

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program in each state is looking forward to the public release of additional information on the nation's nursing homes. The "Nursing Home Compare" section of the Medicare.gov web site is one tool consumers may want to use as they begin the search for the appropriate nursing home for themselves or their loved ones.

Many times the decision to place someone in a facility is made at the last minute, and to have this information readily available may reduce some of the stress associated with this decision making process. However, it should be noted that nothing is more important than actually visiting facilities and seeing how the care is provided first hand.

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) assists individuals and their families by providing information regarding how to choose a nursing home or other type of licensed care facility in their state. The LTCOP also serves as an advocate for residents, working with the resident or on his/her behalf to ensure that rights are protected and that care is provided with dignity and respect.

The quality improvement activities which will begin nationwide are also seen as a very positive thing. In fiscal year 2000, the national LTCOP handled 231,889 complaints in nursing homes. The top complaints were: call lights and requests for assistance; accidents and improper handling; care plans and resident assessment; dignity, respect and staff attitudes.

The LTCOP hopes that by providing information and assistance to facilities across the country, the quality of care will be improved and that in turn will ensure the quality of life of thousands of nursing home residents will also improve.

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The National Association of State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs (NASOP) consists of the 53 state programs. (Includes: Washington, D.C., Guam and Puerto Rico).