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Get Involved -- Section Two: Support Long-Term Care Legislation
Be
an Informed Citizen:
Be Vocal,
Be an Agent for Change
One way to help is by being an informed citizen who communicates with legislators about the needs of residents and actively supports the changes that are needed either in policy and/or regulations.
On this page we will highlight the ongoing work of Louise Ryan, our Washington State Ombudsman, who works with Washington State Legislators to protect the rights, improve the quality of life, and promote the interests and well being of long-term care residents. Louise will keep us informed of the current legislative issues being considered by the State of Washington.
Once informed, we encourage to use our tools and links to communicate your concerns to your local and state government officials, and your state senators and congressman.
Checking the status of a bill: Legislature's Web site (you'll need to enter the bill number where instructed)
Elder Justice Act: Legislative Updates - Elder Justice Act
109th U.S. Congress (2005-2006) H.R. 4493: Elder Justice Act
Know the issues and contact your legislator:Know the issues and regularly communicate your experiences, ideas, and beliefs to your representatives in Olympia and Washington D.C.
To find your local, state or federal representative and to find out how to lobby your legislator, visit The League of Women Voters:
Work with your local Long-Term Care facility to invite state and federal elected officials to visit the residents and become educated regarding issues that affect residents and their families.
Understand the committees that regularly review, revise, and write long term care policy in Washington and communicate with those bodies also.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is committed to serving the needs of older individuals. Through medical insurance offered by Medicare, public support for long-term care options such as home health care and nursing homes, assistance for family caregivers, nutrition services, grant programs, and research into the causes and effects of aging, HHS agencies are striving to support older Americans and to help them lead healthy, active lives. To find out more go to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Fact Sheet
See Stay Informed, and Critical issues in Long Term Care for information on current issues, the LTC Ombudsman Program legislative agenda, and how to reach your legislator. ________________________________________ |
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