Ombudsman
Long-Term Care Ombudsman
A trusted advocate for residents in nursing homes
and adult care homes across the High Country.
How Do I Contact My Ombudsman?
Facilities are required to post Ombudsman contact information and provide private phone access. Conversations with the Ombudsman are kept confidential.
Regional Ombudsman Contact:
Stevie Welborn
468 New Market Blvd., Boone, NC 28607
Phone: (828) 265-5434 ext. 126
Email: swelborn@hccog.org
Role of the Ombudsman
The Regional Long-Term Care Ombudsman serves as an advocate for residents in the High Country region’s long-term care facilities. The Ombudsman ensures that residents’ rights and quality of life are upheld by:
- Resolving complaints made by or for residents.
- Educating consumers and providers about residents’ rights and good care practices.
- Promoting community involvement through volunteer opportunities.
- Providing public information on facilities, residents’ rights, and policy issues.
- Advocating for quality care in nursing homes and adult care homes.
- Promoting the development of citizen organizations, family councils, and resident councils.
Resident Rights
The Regional Long-Term Care Ombudsman helps protect and advocate for these rights. In North Carolina, residents of long-term care facilities have the right to:
- Be treated with dignity, respect, and privacy.
- Make choices about their care and participate in decisions affecting their well-being.
- Voice complaints without fear of retaliation.
- Access medical records.
- Live free from abuse or neglect.
- Manage personal finances or designate someone to do so.
What Is Long-Term Care?
There are two levels of long-term care facilities in North Carolina:
Adult Care Homes (Assisted Living)
- For people who need help with daily care but not as much as a nursing home provides.
- Range in size from 25 residents to 100+.
- Offer varying levels of care, with costs increasing for extra services.
Nursing Homes (Skilled Nursing Facilities)
- Provide medical care and personal support.
- Include nursing care, 24-hour supervision, meals, and daily living assistance.
- Offer rehabilitation services such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
Community Advisory Committees (CACs)
Community Advisory Committees are groups of appointed citizens who assist the Ombudsman in advocating for residents’ rights.
- Appointed by county commissioners
- Trained by the Ombudsman
- Link residents to their communities
- Provide guidance, volunteer opportunities, and advocacy information