Ombudsman

Comprehensive Benefits Package   •   Tuition Discounts   •   Career Advancement    

SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA AREA AGENCY ON AGING, INC.

Overall Function:

Provides Ombudsman services to consumers living in nursing facilities, personal care homes, assisted living facilities, Dom Care homes or in their own home.

Essential Functions:

• Completes investigations and resolves resident complaints regarding quality of life and quality of care issues as directed by the resident.
• Conducts facility coverage visits as assigned in compliance with Department of Aging policy.
• Educates consumers/residents/staff regarding resident rights and offers information on how consumers/residents can best exercise those rights.
• Prepares and submits all required case forms, reports, billings, documentation, and correspondence to the AAA Ombudsman in an accurate and timely manner meeting National Ombudsman Reporting System (NORS) standards.
• Provides advocacy and representation for residents facing involuntary discharge or transfer; ensures residents are informed of their appeal rights and assists in navigating the fair hearing process.
• Provides information and consultation to residents, facility staff and individuals in the community and attends resident plan of care meetings as requested.
• Provides social and emotional support and empowerment to residents/consumers/families to ensure proper service delivery in long-term care environments.
• Supports community outreach initiatives including conducting educational presentations within the community, participating in facility surveys, providing legislative advocacy, and working with Resident and/or Family Councils.
• Supports the development of the PEER Project within the community, including initial training and coordination of post-graduation activities. Performs other mission-critical advocacy tasks and special projects as assigned, provided they do not constitute a conflict of interest as defined by the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
• Adheres to all policies, laws, regulations, codes of ethics, conflict of interest and confidentiality as outlined by federal and state laws, and agency policies and procedures.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Gerontology, Human Services, Social Work or a related field from an accredited college or university.
• Demonstrated knowledge of federal and state regulations governing long-term care facilities, including the Older Americans Act and applicable Pennsylvania Codes.
• Demonstrated knowledge of resident/consumer rights in each applicable long-term care setting and have the ability to research information as needed.
• Demonstrated ability to make incisive observations, obtain vital information and make appropriate recommendations during interviews and/or while reviewing case records.
• Demonstrated knowledge of financial entitlement programs and health/social services available to the consumers.
• Demonstrated proficiency in 'Person-Centered' advocacy, ensuring the resident's expressed wishes remain the primary driver of all investigations and resolutions.
• Must not be excluded from participation in Medicare, Medicaid, or any other federal health care program.
• Must successfully obtain Criminal History Clearance from the PA State Police, Child Abuse Clearance from the PA Department of Human Services and FBI Fingerprint Clearances.

Available Benefits:

• Medical and dental benefits for eligible employees.
• Retirement plan with potential for agency match.
• Tuition discounts with partnering colleges and universities.
• Career advancement opportunities.
• Generous time off for eligible employees.
• Be an SPHS Hero!

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER