Introducing Oregon’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Protecting Your Rights

Since 2015, Fred Steele, Oregon’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman, has led a statewide effort to safeguard the rights, dignity, and quality of life of residents in licensed long-term care settings—from nursing homes to assisted living and memory care communities.

What the Ombudsman Office Does

The Ombudsman program relies on staff and certified volunteers to:

Investigate and resolve complaints
Advocate for residents’ rights
Work to improve quality of care statewide

In his role, Steele also collaborates with legislators and regulators to strengthen Oregon laws that affect residents’ health, safety, rights, and welfare.

When to Contact the Ombudsman

Residents, families, and concerned individuals should reach out whenever they suspect a problem, including:

Medication errors
Unexplained or inaccurate billing
Concerns about a care plan
Evictions or involuntary transfers
Any threats to dignity or resident rights

All services are free and confidential (information is shared only with the resident’s permission where needed).

How Services Work in Beaverton & Washington County

In Washington County, 18 certified Volunteer Ombudsmen serve local facilities—and more volunteers are welcome. Support is provided in person whenever possible through:

Regular on-site visits
Taking and investigating complaints
Working toward resident-directed resolutions
Following up to confirm outcomes

When you call, be prepared to share: facility name, resident name, what happened, and the outcome you’re seeking. The Ombudsman’s efforts center on the resident’s wishes.

What the Office Cannot Do

There are limits to the program’s authority. The Ombudsman does not:

Handle issues outside licensed long-term care facilities (e.g., private homes or home-care services)
Provide legal representation or financial advice
Investigate abuse or neglect cases (but can refer you to the proper agency)

A Proven Record of Success

Thanks to dedicated volunteers and staff, the program achieves successful outcomes in roughly 90% of cases. Common results include:

Revised care plans so residents receive the services they need—often preventing unwanted moves
Ensuring residents receive foods that meet dietary needs and preferences
Restoring access to activities and engagement when barriers arise

These outcomes reflect a simple priority: honoring resident choice.

Volunteer and Make a Difference

No prior long-term care experience is required—just a willingness to advocate. The volunteer pathway includes:

Application
Phone interview
Reference checks
Criminal records check
Training: six online sessions plus guided facility visits

Volunteers gain practical skills while providing a vital, local voice for residents.

How to Get Help—or Get Involved

Questions or concerns about a resident’s rights or care? Contact the Ombudsman for confidential assistance.
Interested in volunteering? Get details from program coordinator Julie Maw at 971-600-6149 or julie.maw@rights.oregon.gov.