They check the home and the care provided and prepare a survey report. You have a right to review the report, which must be posted in the nursing home. Speak to the nursing home administrator to learn more about any problems that appear on the report. Ask if the problems have been corrected. Call your State or local Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
Ombudsmen visit nursing homes on a regular basis and know about each nursing home in their area.
You can ask about the latest survey report and about complaints that have been filed. You can also ask what to look for when visiting local nursing homes. It may be helpful to find out if the home participates in this voluntary process and to learn the results. Location is very important. Go at different times of the day-for example, first thing in the morning and at mealtimes.