How to Get Help From Florida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Free resident advocacy for nursing-home, assisted-living, adult-family-care, and continuing-care problems.
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Call the Ombudsman for problems involving care, dignity, food, roommates, visitation, discharge, billing communication, retaliation, or resident rights. The program is free and confidential.
What to have in front of you
- The notice, bill, decision, or discharge paperwork connected to the problem
- The person’s full name, date of birth, address, insurance information, and identification
- A short timeline with dates, names, phone calls, and what changed
- Copies of medical, school, financial, or care records that directly support the request
What to say when someone answers
“I am calling about a resident in a Brevard County facility. The problem is [specific issue], and I need help understanding the resident’s rights and resolving it.”
Small but useful: Write down the person’s name, the date, the exact next step, and when you should call again.
Do this in order
- 1
Ask the resident what outcome they want and obtain permission when possible.
- 2
Gather the admission agreement, notices, care plan, bills, names, dates, and prior complaints.
- 3
Call the statewide line or East Central District and explain the immediate risk and deadlines.
- 4
Keep the ombudsman’s name and follow-up date; update them if the facility retaliates or issues a discharge notice.
What happens next
An ombudsman may investigate, explain rights, contact the facility, attend meetings, and help pursue a resolution. The program does not replace emergency services or private legal counsel.
If they say “we’ll put you on the list”
If the issue involves immediate danger, abuse, or severe neglect, also call 911, the Abuse Hotline, or AHCA. Do not wait for routine ombudsman follow-up.
Official sources
Checked August 5, 2026. Programs, hours, funding, and enrollment lists can change. Confirm details directly before relying on them.