What is VOICES?

We are a not-for-profit organization founded in 1980 to address concerns and problems in Evansville, Indiana nursing homes and licensed assisted living homes.

Our services include investigation of complaints, resolution of problems and protection of resident rights. We also provide information/training to residents, the general public, and nursing home staff, on long-term care issues such as quality of life and care, selection of a nursing home and sources of payment for care.

All services provided are free and confidential. Anyone who may have concerns regarding long-term care or residents in a long-term care home may contact us.

What is an Ombudsman?

Ombudsman is a Swedish word meaning citizen’s representative. A long-term care Ombudsman serves as an advocate who seeks to resolve complaints made by or on
behalf of people who are consumers of long-term care services.

What does the Ombudsman do?

The Ombudsman’s job is to protect the rights of residents and assure that residents receive fair treatment and quality of care by:

  • investigating and resolving complaints
  • visiting each facility, at least annually, to evaluate conditions
  • ensuring that residents are receiving the legal, financial, social, rehabilitative, and other
  • services to which they are entitled
  • educating residents, families, and facility staff about resident rights
  • providing information to the public about long-term care facilities
  • assisting with the establishment of resident and family councils
  • representing residents’ interests before federal and state government by working to change
  • laws, regulations, and policies that affect those who live in long-term care facilities

Ombudsman Advice:

A nursing home must allow residents to make suggestions and complaints relating to his/her quality of life and treatment. Also, any resident, family member, visitor or staff member may contact the long-term care Ombudsman for assistance in upholding the rights of residents by calling (812) 423-2927.

In addition, anyone can file a complaint with the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) by calling their toll free number at (800) 246-8909. Both services are free and confidential as any person contacting the long-term care Ombudsman or the ISDH.