From Helen - A support group member

Most people may not be aware, but on September 28th, the Governor Schwarzenegger eliminated (by line item veto) the entire state funding for Ombudsman programs. Here's the link to an article in the Sacramento Business Journal:
 
http://sacramento.bizjournals.com/losangeles/stories/2008/10/13/daily20.html
 
This program is essential for the care and well being of 250,000 residents of California's 1,300 nursing homes and more than 8,000 assisted living facilities. Established in 1980, the Ombudsman Program trains volunteer patients' right advocates to represent patients in skilled nursing and residential care homes. 68% of those in nursing homes have no family or friends who ever visit or advocate for them. Ombudsman staff and volunteers serve as that friend and advocate.
 
I personally have utilized the services of an ombudsman when my father was receiving neglectful and injurious care in a skilled nursing facility in Napa County. He represented my father and the family to the State Department of Community Care Licensing and 16 deficiencies were noted at the facility. Subsequently many care standards were reviewed and improved and most senior staff were fired. Although my father died a short time later, we believe that the Ombudsman's advocacy prevented further harm to come to others.
 
This complete slashing of the state's budget for the program is reprehensible and will result in a decline in patient care. We as Californians must contact the governor's office and our local representatives and notify them of our dissatisfaction. In addition, if anyone is able, please contact your local program and see what you can do to help.  (You can find the contact info for your local ombudsman program here:  http://www.aging.ca.gov/programs/ombudsman_contacts.asp)