NASOP

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF STATE LONG-TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN PROGRAMS

The National Association of State Long-term Care Ombudsman Programs (NASOP) was formed in 1985 and is a non-profit membership organization. Members are State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs (SLTCOPs) and pay annual dues. Participation is open to staff of SLTCOPs who may attend semi-annual membership meetings held in the spring and fall in conjunction with national advocacy training conferences. When national issues require an immediate response, NASOP sends alerts to members.

MISSION AND OBJECTIVES

NASOP is dedicated to improving the quality of life and quality of care of long-term care consumers through effective State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs. NASOP:

• Analyzes and comments on national legislation, policies and regulations impacting on long-term care residents and affecting the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

• Exchanges information and opportunities among state ombudsman programs

• Provides for the professional development of sate ombudsman program staff

• Maintains collaborative relationships with consumer advocacy organizations, governmental bodies, and health care providers

SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES

In addition to its semi-annual membership meetings and action alerts, NASOP:

• Develops position papers on various topics affecting residents and the ombudsman program

• Maintains a national presence on behalf of long-term care consumers and SLTCOPs by: testifying in congressional hearings; submitting written comments to Congress and federal agencies; and participating in meetings and work groups of national organizations addressing resident care or ombudsman program issues

• Develops unified national strategies in areas of concern to long-term care residents and SLTCOP through its Advocacy Committee

• Produces a newsletter, the NASOP Grapevine

• Mentors new State Ombudsmen offering assistance learning the job and identifying resources.

For more information contact Bev Laubert, NASOP President at:
Ohio State Long Term Care Ombudsman
Office Department of Aging
50 W Broad Street
9th Floor
Columbus, OH 43215-3363
Tel: (614) 644-7922
Fax: (614) 644-5201

NASOP 2007 Executive Committee, Board and Committee Chairs