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Health Service Ombudsman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Larimer County

CO · Hybrid

$26.60 - $31.92/hr

Overview At the Larimer County Department of Human Services, we strive to be responsive and provide ... Receiving, investigating, and resolving complaints regarding the health, safety, welfare, or rights ...

The State of Arizona

OMBUDSMAN

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$55K - $72K/yr

Customer service and stakeholder relations. Analysis of insurance, medical, and legal documents ... Health and dental insurance Retirement plan Life insurance and long-term disability insurance ...

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 ...

Disability Policy Consortium

Outreach Ombudsman

Boston, MA · On-site

$50K - $54K/yr

The Outreach Ombudsman devotes approximately 65% of their time to community engagement efforts (in ... At least three years of experience working in the customer service industry, healthcare setting ...

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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 2, 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.
More about Health Service Ombudsman jobs
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,231 per year, or $36.6 per hour.
Aging Services Ombudsman-Developmental Disabilities Division

Aging Services Ombudsman-Developmental Disabilities Division

Nebraska State Jobs

North Platte, NE • On-site

$23.13/hr

Full-time

Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Nebraska Department Of Transportation rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

389th of 668 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

The work we do matters!
Hiring Agency:
Health & Human Services - Agency 25
Location:
Broken Bow, NE, North Platte, NE
Hiring Rate:
$23.126
Job Posting:
JR2026-00027402 Aging Services Ombudsman-Developmental Disabilities Division (Open)
Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as open until closed):
07-08-2026
Job Description:
Are you passionate about advocating for others and making a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable adults? The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is seeking a compassionate, motivated professional to join our team as an Aging Services Ombudsman. In this role, you will help protect the rights, dignity, health, and quality of life of individuals residing in long-term care settings while supporting DHHS' mission of helping Nebraskans live better lives. If you are a strong communicator, problem-solver, and advocate who thrives on helping others, we encourage you to apply!
Examples of Work
What You'll Do:
  • Advocate for the rights, dignity, and interests of residents living in long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and adult care homes.
  • Investigate, mediate, and resolve complaints made by residents, families, or other stakeholders regarding resident care, safety, welfare, and rights.
  • Work collaboratively with residents and families to develop action plans and empower them to actively participate in decisions affecting their care and quality of life.
  • Provide information, resources, and support services to residents, families, and facility staff regarding resident rights and long-term care services.
  • Maintain a regular presence in long-term care facilities to ensure residents have timely access to Ombudsman services and receive prompt responses to concerns and complaints.
  • Mediate disputes between residents, families, and facility staff to promote fair, respectful, and resident-centered resolutions.
  • Maintain accurate and confidential records of complaints, investigations, case activities, and outcomes in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and program standards.
  • Collect and report program data and information to the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman and the State Unit on Aging.
  • Recruit and provide training and support to Ombudsman volunteers.
  • Collaborate with long-term care facilities, government agencies, advocacy organizations, legal services, and community partners to address concerns impacting residents.
  • Advocate for systemic improvements in laws, policies, regulations, and practices to strengthen resident protections and improve the quality of long-term care services.
  • Participate in ongoing training and professional development activities to remain current on long-term care regulations, resident rights, and best practices in advocacy.

Requirements/Qualification
Minimum Qualifications: Post high school coursework in behavioral or social sciences and independent work experience in social/human services.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in social work, healthcare administration, gerontology or other human services field is preferred, Equivalent work experience may be substituted for degree. Related coursework, training and/or education may substitute for the bachelor's degree on a year-for-year basis. Relevant experience may include aging services or work in disability services.
  • Experience in leadership and program management skills, and training employees or volunteers.
  • Experience or knowledge working with older adults or individuals with disabilities in a long-term care setting.
  • Knowledge of residential long-term care and gerontology and aging programs.
  • Knowledge of long-term care regulatory systems and the survey process.
  • Consumer oriented public policy advocacy skills
  • Knowledge of individual and systems advocacy processes and procedures.
  • Problem solving, mediation, compliant resolution skills,
  • Strong verbal, listening, and written communication skills.
  • An understanding of long-term care issues;
  • Experience in the fields of aging and health care;
  • Worked with and been involved in volunteer programs;

Other: This position will require travel up to 50% of the time, therefore one must possess a valid driver's license and reliable transportation for travel to long-term care facilities. Successful completion of background checks and any other screenings required by regulatory agencies or employers. Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed to respond to emergencies or address resident concerns.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Knowledge of:
  • Resident rights and advocacy practices within long-term care settings.
  • State and federal laws, regulations, and policies related to long-term care facilities and vulnerable adults.
  • Conflict resolution, mediation, and investigative practices.
  • Community resources and support services available to aging adults and individuals with disabilities.
  • Confidentiality requirements and documentation standards.

Skill in:
  • Building professional relationships with residents, families, providers, and community partners.
  • Investigating concerns and gathering relevant information objectively and thoroughly.
  • Problem-solving, mediation, and conflict resolution.
  • Written and verbal communication, including preparing reports and maintaining accurate case documentation.
  • Time management, organization, and prioritizing multiple responsibilities.

Ability to:
  • Advocate effectively for vulnerable individuals while maintaining professionalism and neutrality.
  • Communicate sensitively and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of ability.
  • Work independently and exercise sound judgment in complex or sensitive situations.
  • Interpret and apply laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
  • Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
  • Travel as needed to long-term care facilities and community locations.

If you're currently employed by the State of Nebraska, please don't apply through this external career site. Instead, log in to Workday and open the Jobs Hub - Internal Apply app from your home landing page. You can access Workday anytime through the Link web page: https://link.nebraska.gov/
Benefits
We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.
Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefits
Equal Opportunity Statement
The State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex. age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.

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