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Health Service Ombudsman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Montana

Ombudsman Program Manager (37649)

Helena, MT · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Bachelor's degree in healthcare, human services, or public administration. * 2 years job-related ... Certified local ombudsman, or you must obtain certification within the first six months of ...

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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.
Ombudsman Program Manager (37649)

Ombudsman Program Manager (37649)

State of Montana

Helena, MT • On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

State Of Montana rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 50 rated states

Job description

To be considered for this position you must complete the state application and attach all required documents through the Montana State Careers site at  www.statecareers.mt.gov

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has a career opportunity within the Senior & Long Term Care Division, Aging Services Bureau.

The State Long Term Care Ombudsman program is authorized under the Older Americans Act (OAA) Title III Ombudsman and Title VII Ombudsman programs.  This position will represent the interests of the residents living in Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living facilities or Critical Access Hospitals with swing beds throughout the state.  The Ombudsman Program Manager will assist the State Ombudsman with monitoring and support for the Program's implementation of and compliance with Federal, State and local laws, regulations and other governmental policies and actions that pertain to the health, safety, welfare and rights of the residents. 

Why Join DPHHS

Our mission at DPHHS is serving Montanans in their communities to improve health, safety, well-being, and empower independence. By joining our department, you will have the opportunity to perform meaningful work in public service to our state and its residents.

The State of Montana's comprehensive benefits package includes healthcare coverage, retirement plans, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, work/life balance, and eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. In addition, DPHHS is the largest state agency with a wide range of advancement opportunities whether you are joining the workforce or have several years of experience.

Qualifications for this Career Opportunity

  • Knowledge of statewide resources.

  • Knowledge of aging and disability issues.

  • Knowledge of training principles and practices.

  • Skill in managing competing timelines and deadlines and managing the logistics of numerous, often complex situations.

  • Meet minimum qualifications:

    • Bachelor's degree in healthcare, human services, or public administration.

    • 2 years job-related work experience in program management of services to persons with disabilities and/or those in the aging community.

    • Certified local ombudsman, or you must obtain certification within the first six months of employment.

    • Other combinations of education and experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

How to Apply

To be considered for a DPHHS position, submit the following required documents with your application on the State of Montana Careers website. When submitting the required documents, you must check the "relevant document" box to ensure your attachments are uploaded correctly to your application for this position.

  • Cover Letter

  • Resume

  • References

Successful applicants will be subject to background checks relevant to the position and must pass reference checks before an offer will be extended. DPHHS is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For a copy of the full job description or if you need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, contact DPHHS Human Resources listed below.

Additional Information

This position may be eligible for partial telework within the state of Montana. Specific conditions will be provided by the supervisor and must adhere to state policy.

This position may be eligible for a statutory $1.00 an hour base pay increase effective July 1, 2026.

This position is open until filled with frequent screening of applicants.

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