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"Sometimes we're that extra support for families. They have a lot of things going on in their lives. We can help them get the best possible care for their loved one."
— Ombudsman Greg
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The Office of the State Long-Term Care (LTC) Ombudsman is independent of the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) system. This ensures the state ombudsman and all program representatives advocate for resident interests. Ombudsmen work to solve individual problems and to change policy and law to protect residents.
The Role of the State LTC Ombudsman
The State Long-Term Care Ombudsman:
- Advocates for systemic changes to problems affecting residents.
- Testifies on state and federal issues.
- Educates the public and certifies staff and volunteer representatives of the ombudsman program.
- Leads the statewide ombudsman program.
Meet the State LTC Ombudsman
Patty Ducayet has been the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman since 2007. Before working for Texas HHS, she worked for The Senior Source, a nonprofit organization in Dallas serving older adults.
She holds a bachelor's degree in social work from The University of Texas and a master's degree in social work from the University of Denver. During her graduate studies, she trained in conflict resolution.
To reach Patty, email patricia.ducayet@hhs.texas.gov or call 512-438-4356.
Contact the State LTC Ombudsman
4601 Guadalupe St.
Austin, TX 78751
512-438-4265
800-252-2412
Fax: 512-438-3233
Patty Ducayet, State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, patricia.ducayet@hhs.texas.gov
Alexa Schoeman, Deputy State Ombudsman, alexa.schoeman@hhs.texas.gov
Sara Kimber, Nursing Home Policy Specialist, sara.kimber@hhs.texas.gov
Erica Nunn, Assisted Living Ombudsman, erica.nunn@hhs.texas.gov
Pat Borgfeldt, Ombudsman Developer, pat.borgfeldt@hhs.texas.gov
Jeni Broz, Ombudsman Specialist, jeni.broz@hhs.texas.gov
Christy Alvarado, Quality Assurance Ombudsman, christy.alvarado@hhs.texas.gov
Tara Strain, Discharge Rights Ombudsman, tara.strain@hhs.texas.gov
Jo Kucera, Office Manager, jo.kucera@hhs.texas.gov
Find Your Local Ombudsman Program
Each of the 28 local ombudsman programs has a manager on staff. You can find yours by:
- Calling 800-252-2412.
- Using the LTC Ombudsman search feature.
- Look for the LTC Ombudsman poster in your facility.