CT HB05227

Establishes a Community Ombudsman program within the Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, effective July 1, 2022, to serve home care clients receiving long-term services and supports through the Department of Social Services.

Requires the State Ombudsman to appoint by October 1, 2022, a Community Ombudsman supervisor, up to twelve regional community ombudsmen, and up to two administrative support staff members.

Authorizes ombudsmen to access client data with written consent or without consent if the client is incapable and has no authorized representative and the supervisor determines access is necessary to investigate a complaint.

Tasks the program with investigating and resolving home care complaints, raising public awareness, promoting access to services, advocating for long-term care options, coaching self-advocacy, and providing referrals for legal, housing, and social services.

Requires the State Ombudsman to submit annual reports to joint standing committees beginning December 1, 2023, detailing program implementation, persons served, complaints filed, complaint dispositions, and service gaps.