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House Bill No. 5506

Public Act No. 22-118 386 of 739

established pursuant to section 17a-405 of the general statutes. Not later than October 1, 2022, the State Ombudsman appointed pursuant to said section shall (1) appoint a Community Ombudsman supervisor and not more than twelve regional community ombudsmen; and (2) hire not more than two administrative support staff members, all of whom shall report to the State Ombudsman. The Community Ombudsman supervisor and the regional community ombudsmen shall: (A) Have access to data pertaining to long-term services and supports provided by a home care provider to a client, provided (i) such client or such client's authorized representative provides written consent to such access, or (ii) if such client is incapable of providing such consent due to a physical, cognitive or mental health condition or disability and has no authorized representative, the Community Ombudsman supervisor determines the data is necessary to investigate a complaint concerning such client's care; (B) Identify, investigate, refer and resolve complaints about home care services; (C) Raise public awareness about home care and the Community Ombudsman program; (D) Promote access to home care services; (E) Advocate for long-term care options; (F) Coach individuals in self advocacy; and (G) Provide referrals to home care clients for legal, housing and social services. (c) The Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman shall oversee the Community Ombudsman program and provide administrative and organizational support by: