LTCO :: Residents' Rights


		Long Term Care Ombudsman Services of Santa Barbara County

Welcome to the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

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	Our Mission Our mission is to advocate for dignity, quality of life, and quality of care for all residents in long term care facilities.

	Residents' Rights
	When individuals enter a nursing home or assisted living home, they keep all their rights as citizens, plus gain special "Residents' Rights" under federal and state law. Facilities must post a copy of these rights in an area easily accessible to the residents, and must provide a copy to each resident upon admission. To download the Resident's Rights in Nursing Homes pamphlet, click here.

	The Elderly In Long Term Care Facilities Have The Right To: Be treated with dignity and respect Exercise their rights as a California resident and United States citizen Be cared for in a safe, comfortable and healthful environment free from mental, physical or verbal abuse and chemical or physical restraints Express complaints and grievances without fear of retribution Attend religious services in or outside the facility, and to have visits from a spiritual advisor of their choice Be informed of their medical condition and participate in treatment planning Privacy, including visits with anyone of their choice, mail and telephone services Participate in resident council meetings Have access to their records and access to state inspection reports Be informed on Medicare and Medi-Cal services, and other items or services and their costs Not be transferred or discharged without cause or notice Be treated equally and without discrimination regardless of source of payment Make independent decisions and manage financial affairs Execute an Advanced Health Care Directive The Resident's Rights are different in Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF) and Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE). For more information click the appropriate link: Resident's Rights in Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF) Resident's Rights in Residential Care Faclities for the Elderly (RCFE)

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