Aging Services Ombudsman - Developmental Disabilities Division - PART TIME

Aging Services Ombudsman - Developmental Disabilities Division - PART TIME (Open)

Are you passionate about advocating for others and making a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable adults? The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is seeking a compassionate, motivated professional to join our team as an Aging Services Ombudsman. In this role, you will help protect the rights, dignity, health, and quality of life of individuals residing in long-term care settings while supporting DHHS' mission of helping Nebraskans live better lives. If you are a strong communicator, problem-solver, and advocate who thrives on helping others, we encourage you to apply!

Examples of Work

What You'll Do:

• Advocate for the rights, dignity, and interests of residents living in long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and adult care homes.
• Investigate, mediate, and resolve complaints made by residents, families, or other stakeholders regarding resident care, safety, welfare, and rights.
• Work collaboratively with residents and families to develop action plans and empower them to actively participate in decisions affecting their care and quality of life.
• Provide information, resources, and support services to residents, families, and facility staff regarding resident rights and long-term care services.
• Maintain a regular presence in long-term care facilities to ensure residents have timely access to Ombudsman services and receive prompt responses to concerns and complaints.
• Mediate disputes between residents, families, and facility staff to promote fair, respectful, and resident-centered resolutions.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of complaints, investigations, case activities, and outcomes in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and program standards.
• Collect and report program data and information to the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman and the State Unit on Aging.
• Recruit and provide training and support to Ombudsman volunteers.
• Collaborate with long-term care facilities, government agencies, advocacy organizations, legal services, and community partners to address concerns impacting residents.
• Advocate for systemic improvements in laws, policies, regulations, and practices to strengthen resident protections and improve the quality of long-term care services.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development activities to remain current on long-term care regulations, resident rights, and best practices in advocacy.

Requirements/Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Post high school coursework in behavioral or social sciences and independent work experience in social/human services.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, healthcare administration, gerontology or other human services field is preferred, Equivalent work experience may be substituted for degree. Related coursework, training and/or education may substitute for the bachelor's degree on a year-for-year basis. Relevant experience may include aging services or work in disability services.
• Experience in leadership and program management skills, and training employees or volunteers.
• Experience or knowledge working with older adults or individuals with disabilities in a long-term care setting.
• Knowledge of residential long-term care and gerontology and aging programs.
• Knowledge of long-term care regulatory systems and the survey process.
• Consumer oriented public policy advocacy skills
• Knowledge of individual and systems advocacy processes and procedures.
• Problem solving, mediation, compliant resolution skills,
• Strong verbal, listening, and written communication skills.
• An understanding of long-term care issues;
• Experience in the fields of aging and health care;
• Worked with and been involved in volunteer programs;

Other: This position will require travel up to 50% of the time, therefore one must possess a valid driver's license and reliable transportation for travel to long-term care facilities. Successful completion of background checks and any other screenings required by regulatory agencies or employers. Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed to respond to emergencies or address resident concerns.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Resident rights and advocacy practices within long-term care settings.
• State and federal laws, regulations, and policies related to long-term care facilities and vulnerable adults.
• Conflict resolution, mediation, and investigative practices.
• Community resources and support services available to aging adults and individuals with disabilities.
• Confidentiality requirements and documentation standards.

Skill in:

• Building professional relationships with residents, families, providers, and community partners.
• Investigating concerns and gathering relevant information objectively and thoroughly.
• Problem-solving, mediation, and conflict resolution.
• Written and verbal communication, including preparing reports and maintaining accurate case documentation.
• Time management, organization, and prioritizing multiple responsibilities.

Ability to:

• Advocate effectively for vulnerable individuals while maintaining professionalism and neutrality.
• Communicate sensitively and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of ability.
• Work independently and exercise sound judgment in complex or sensitive situations.
• Interpret and apply laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
• Travel as needed to long-term care facilities and community locations.