CT SB01054

Establishes an independent ombudsman office within the Department of Public Health effective July 1, 2021 to receive and investigate complaints about home health care and hospice care services.

Commissioner of Public Health appoints a full-time State Home Health and Hospice Ombudsman with expertise in home health and hospice care, with authority to designate an acting ombudsman if needed.

Ombudsman investigates complaints related to home health care programs (including the Connecticut home-care program for the elderly) and licensed hospice organizations, and makes recommendations to the Commissioners of Public Health and Social Services.

Ombudsman must ensure timely access to services and responses for persons receiving home health or hospice care and their representatives, and monitor development of federal, state, and local laws and regulations affecting these services.

Ombudsman must file annual reports to the General Assembly's human services and public health committees beginning January 1, 2022, detailing complaints received, resolutions, and recommendations for improved outreach and complaint resolution.