YOUR VOICE
As a resident of a long-term care facility, you have real choices and an important voice in shaping the care you receive. Being treated with dignity and respect is your fundamental right. Feeling safe in your environment should be an everyday reality.
WE CAN HELP
The Ombudsman Program at Highland Valley Elder Services visits long-term care facilities to ensure that your guaranteed rights are in place so that you can enjoy the highest quality of life. Our ombudsmen visit facilities regularly so you can discuss any problems you may be encountering with a facility's policies, or any other issues related to your care and safety. All conversations with the ombudsman are CONFIDENTIAL and ombudsmen are trained to work at the resident's direction. We will not reveal your complaints to anyone at the facility, unless you specifically give us consent to do so.
The services of the Highland Valley long-term care ombudsmen are available free of charge to all residents of long-term care facilities. Ombudsmen can also be an important resource for individuals and families who are considering long-term care placement.
RESIDENTS' RIGHTS
Residents of nursing homes and rest homes have the right:
- To be treated with dignity and respect.
- To be free from physical and chemical restraints.
- To send and to receive their mail unopened.
- To participate in arranging their personal care plans.
- To refuse treatment or medication.
- To manage their personal and financial affairs.
- To present grievances to facility staff.
- To present concerns to an ombudsman.
These are just a few of your rights!
Call us at (413) 586-2000 to find out more about our Ombudsman Advocacy services.
THE MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH...
is the state agency that licenses and regulates long-term care facilities in the state of Massachusetts. If you would like to report neglect, abuse of misappropriation of funds in a Massachusetts long-term care facility, please contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at 1-800-462-5540.