Some long-term care residents in western Illinois have little or no outside support when it comes to someone explaining and defending their healthcare rights. Volunteer advocates, known as ombudsman, advocate for the healthcare rights of those residents. Western Illinois Regional Council (WIRC) is offering a free informational workshop for caring individuals who are interested in this critical, and rewarding, volunteer opportunity.
WIRC officials say that an ombudsman should be someone who has a compassionate nature and takes confidentiality seriously. “A good candidate enjoys working with older adults, has good listening and communication skills, and follows the law to maintain confidentiality of their client,” said WIRC Public Relations Manager Jamie Roth. “They should also be someone who enjoys meeting new people and interacting with people from varying backgrounds, because they may be the only visitor that some of these long-term care residents have.” She continued that all volunteers must pass a criminal background check.
The informational meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 starting at 3:00 p.m. at the WIRC office, 133 West Jackson Street, Macomb, Illinois. It is free and open to the public. Those interested in attending are encouraged to save their seat by calling the WIRC office at 309-837-3941, emailing wirc@wirpc.org, or by filling out a short online form at wirpc.org/ombudsman/.
WIRC, based in Macomb, helps people and communities in western Illinois. To learn more about their programs and services, call their office at 309-837-3941, find the agency on social media, or visit their website at wirpc.org. WIRC is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
***Courtesy of the Western Illinois Regional Council***
