About the Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman
The Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman is independent of the Texas Health and Human Services 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
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.
— Greg, ombudsman
Meet the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Patty Ducayet has been the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman since 2007. Before working for the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS), she worked for The Senior Source, a nonprofit organization in Dallas serving older adults.
At The Senior Source, Ducayet was the managing local ombudsman for the Dallas County ombudsman program and served as director of programs for Long-Term Care Ombudsman, Guardianship and Money Management, RSVP, Senior Companions, Foster Grandparents, Senior Employment, Advocacy Group for Elders and In-home Elder Support.
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.
Find Your Local Ombudsman Program
Each of the 28 local ombudsman programs has a managing local ombudsman on staff. You can find yours by:
- Calling 1-800-252-2412
- Using the Long-Term Care Ombudsman search feature
- Visiting the LTC Ombudsman directory
- Look for the LTC Ombudsman poster in your facility
Updated: January 11, 2024
The Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman is independent of the Texas Health and Human Services 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.
