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SPHS GROUP

Ombudsman

Charleroi, PA

Provides Ombudsman services to consumers living in nursing facilities, personal care homes ... Demonstrated knowledge of financial entitlement programs and health/social services available to ...

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Health Service Ombudsman information

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$37.5K

$76.2K

$125.5K

How much do health service ombudsman jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for health service ombudsman in the United States is $76,231.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $102,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Health Service Ombudsmen face when handling complaints?

Health Service Ombudsmen often encounter complex cases that require balancing objectivity and empathy, as they must thoroughly investigate complaints while remaining impartial. Navigating sensitive healthcare issues, understanding intricate medical procedures, and managing interactions with distressed complainants can be challenging. Additionally, Ombudsmen must collaborate with healthcare providers, legal teams, and regulatory bodies to ensure fair resolutions, all while adhering to strict confidentiality protocols and timelines.

What is a Health Service Ombudsman?

A Health Service Ombudsman is an independent official who investigates complaints about the NHS and other public health services. They help ensure that patients and service users are treated fairly, and that complaints about poor service or maladministration are resolved impartially. The Ombudsman is usually the last resort after local resolution processes have been exhausted, and they have the authority to make recommendations for putting things right, including apologies, service improvements, or financial compensation. Their work promotes accountability and improvements in healthcare services.

What is the difference between Health Service Ombudsman vs Patient Advocate?

AspectHealth Service OmbudsmanPatient Advocate
RoleInvestigates complaints about health and social care services, ensuring accountability and resolutionSupports and guides patients through healthcare processes, advocating for their rights and needs
CredentialsTypically requires healthcare or legal background, with knowledge of healthcare regulationsOften requires communication, counseling, or social work qualifications
Work EnvironmentIndependent public body, government-funded, in offices or via remote communicationHealthcare facilities, community settings, or via remote support
Employer & IndustryGovernment health departments, regulatory agenciesHealthcare providers, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups

The main difference is that the Health Service Ombudsman investigates complaints and holds healthcare providers accountable, while a Patient Advocate focuses on supporting and guiding patients through their healthcare journey. Both roles aim to improve patient experiences but serve different functions within the healthcare system.

What is an ombudsman in healthcare?

A Health Service Ombudsman is a professional who investigates and resolves complaints from patients about healthcare services. They work independently from healthcare providers and often have skills in communication, investigation, and understanding healthcare policies to ensure fair treatment and accountability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Health Service Ombudsman, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Health Service Ombudsman, you need a strong background in health policy, law, or public administration, typically supported by relevant degrees and experience in complaint resolution or investigation. Familiarity with case management systems, data analysis tools, and regulatory frameworks is essential. Exceptional soft skills such as impartiality, active listening, and clear communication are crucial for building trust and navigating sensitive cases. These skills ensure fair, thorough investigations and uphold public confidence in health service accountability.

Is being an ombudsman a good job?

A Health Service Ombudsman investigates and resolves complaints from patients about healthcare services, requiring strong communication, analytical skills, and knowledge of healthcare policies. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in patient advocacy and public service, often involving office-based work with occasional visits to healthcare facilities.

How do you get a job as an ombudsman?

To become a Health Service Ombudsman, candidates typically need relevant experience in healthcare, law, or public administration, along with strong communication and investigative skills. A background in healthcare policy or patient advocacy is often beneficial, and some roles may require specific certifications or qualifications. Applying through government or health service agencies and demonstrating a commitment to public service are important steps.

What qualifications does an ombudsman need?

A Health Service Ombudsman typically needs a professional background in healthcare, law, or social services, along with strong communication, investigation, and conflict resolution skills. Relevant qualifications may include a degree or equivalent experience in a related field, and some roles may require specific certifications or training in healthcare regulation or advocacy.
What cities are hiring for Health Service Ombudsman jobs? Cities with the most Health Service Ombudsman job openings:
What states have the most Health Service Ombudsman jobs? States with the most job openings for Health Service Ombudsman jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Health Service Ombudsman jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Health Service Ombudsman jobs are:
Health Service Ombudsman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Health Service Ombudsman job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,231 per year, or $36.6 per hour.
Ombudsman

Ombudsman

Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services, Inc.

Charleroi, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Comprehensive Benefits Package• Tuition Discounts• Career Advancement
SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA AREA AGENCY ON AGING, INC.
Overall Function:
Provides Ombudsman services to consumers living in nursing facilities, personal care homes, assisted living facilities, Dom Care homes or in their own home.
Essential Functions:
  • Completes investigations and resolves resident complaints regarding quality of life and quality of care issues as directed by the resident.
  • Conducts facility coverage visits as assigned in compliance with Department of Aging policy.
  • Educates consumers/residents/staff regarding resident rights and offers information on how consumers/residents can best exercise those rights.
  • Prepares and submits all required case forms, reports, billings, documentation, and correspondence to the AAA Ombudsman in an accurate and timely manner meeting National Ombudsman Reporting System (NORS) standards.
  • Provides advocacy and representation for residents facing involuntary discharge or transfer; ensures residents are informed of their appeal rights and assists in navigating the fair hearing process.
  • Provides information and consultation to residents, facility staff and individuals in the community and attends resident plan of care meetings as requested.
  • Provides social and emotional support and empowerment to residents/consumers/families to ensure proper service delivery in long-term care environments.
  • Supports community outreach initiatives including conducting educational presentations within the community, participating in facility surveys, providing legislative advocacy, and working with Resident and/or Family Councils.
  • Supports the development of the PEER Project within the community, including initial training and coordination of post-graduation activities. Performs other mission-critical advocacy tasks and special projects as assigned, provided they do not constitute a conflict of interest as defined by the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
  • Adheres to all policies, laws, regulations, codes of ethics, conflict of interest and confidentiality as outlined by federal and state laws, and agency policies and procedures.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Gerontology, Human Services, Social Work or a related field from an accredited college or university.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of federal and state regulations governing long-term care facilities, including the Older Americans Act and applicable Pennsylvania Codes.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of resident/consumer rights in each applicable long-term care setting and have the ability to research information as needed.
  • Demonstrated ability to make incisive observations, obtain vital information and make appropriate recommendations during interviews and/or while reviewing case records.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of financial entitlement programs and health/social services available to the consumers.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in 'Person-Centered' advocacy, ensuring the resident's expressed wishes remain the primary driver of all investigations and resolutions.
  • Must not be excluded from participation in Medicare, Medicaid, or any other federal health care program.
  • Must successfully obtain Criminal History Clearance from the PA State Police, Child Abuse Clearance from the PA Department of Human Services and FBI Fingerprint Clearances.

Available Benefits:
  • Medical and dental benefits for eligible employees.
  • Retirement plan with potential for agency match.
  • Tuition discounts with partnering colleges and universities.
  • Career advancement opportunities.
  • Generous time off for eligible employees.
  • Be an SPHS Hero!

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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