You've Got a "Bud" in Your Ombudsman

There have been reports circulating in the media that there is a shortage of ombudsmen in Texas, especially in long-term care facilities. It is said, too, that these ombudsmen play vital roles in the lives of the people living in and receiving care at these facilities. However, what is less known is who these ombudsmen are and what they do. An ombudsman, according to Merriam-Webster is “a person who investigates, reports on, and helps settle complaints.” They typically act as an advocate for patients, consumers, the aging, the underserved, etc. In most cases, the ombudsman is an official who is appointed by a governmental entity and acts independently and not necessarily on behalf of the government. Ombudsmen work in various fields and industries, such as insurance, telecommunications, health care, and media.

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