This bill mandates the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman to employ three geriatric social workers, each assigned to different regions of New Jersey—northern, central, and southern—to specifically address the legal, financial, and service needs of long-term care residents. The social workers will be present to advise residents during their initial contract signing meetings with long-term care facilities, ensuring that residents receive the necessary support and guidance from the outset of their care.

Additionally, the bill includes an appropriation from the General Fund to the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman to fund these positions. The Ombudsman is tasked with safeguarding the health, safety, and welfare of long-term care residents through various means, including investigations of abuse and neglect, advocacy, and educational outreach. The introduction of these social workers is intended to enhance the support system for residents, ensuring their rights and needs are adequately addressed.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:27G-5