Oregon Ombudsman program struggles with volunteer shortages and case resolutions

In a recent meeting of the Oregon State Legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Human Services, the pressing issue of volunteer shortages in the state's long-term care ombudsman program took center stage. As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that the program, which relies heavily on community volunteers to advocate for residents in care facilities, is facing significant challenges.

Currently, only 34% of the necessary volunteer coverage is in place, with just 110 active volunteers available to serve approximately 350 facilities across Oregon. This decline is stark compared to previous years, where the program boasted nearly 200 volunteers before the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic had a particularly harsh impact, as many volunteers, primarily older adults, were hesitant to return to care facilities due to health concerns. As a result, the program has seen a dramatic drop in volunteer numbers, leading to a backlog of cases and unmet needs among residents.

The ombudsman program is crucial for addressing various resident complaints, with eviction notices being the most common issue faced. Volunteers play a vital role in assisting residents through administrative hearings and care planning meetings, aiming to prevent evictions and ensure that residents receive the necessary support. However, the program's ability to resolve complaints has been hampered by the shortage of volunteers, with only 56 new volunteers trained in the last two years.

Despite these challenges, the program has managed to conduct nearly 11,000 visits to facilities over the past biennium, showcasing the dedication of the remaining volunteers. The ombudsman team emphasized the importance of resident satisfaction in complaint resolution, aiming for at least partial resolution to meet residents' needs.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency for increased volunteer recruitment was palpable. The ombudsman program is actively seeking to bolster its ranks, recognizing that the well-being of Oregon's vulnerable residents hinges on the support and advocacy provided by dedicated volunteers. The committee's discussions highlighted not only the current struggles but also the resilience of the program and its commitment to serving the community.