State of Texas Ombudsman Program

Long-Term Care Regulatory Provider Letter

Number: PL 2021-22
Title: Posting of Ombudsman Information
Provider Types: Assisted Living Facilities (ALF) and Nursing Facilities (NF)
Date Issued: November 9, 2021

1.0 Subject and Purpose

This provider letter is being issued to inform providers how to comply with House Bill 3961 (87th Texas Legislature, Regular Session, 2021). Under the bill, an ALF or NF must post information about the State Long-term Care Ombudsman Program on the facility’s internet website. This requirement will become effective on January 1, 2022.

2.0 Policy Details & Provider Responsibilities

The purpose of the bill is to promote awareness of the Ombudsman Program and make its information more readily available to the public. A facility must prominently and conspicuously post the following information about the Ombudsman Program on its website: “A long-term care ombudsman helps residents of a nursing facility and residents of an assisted living facility resolve complaints. Help provided by an ombudsman is confidential and free of charge. To speak with an ombudsman, a person may call the toll-free number 1-800-252-2412.” An ALF and NF can comply with this law by prominently and conspicuously posting the required information on the internet website of the facility’s parent company if the facility does not maintain a unique internet website. A facility is not required to comply with this posting if neither the facility nor any parent company does not maintain an internet website.

3.0 Contact Information

If you have any questions about this letter, please contact the Policy and Rules Section by email at LTCRPolicy@hhs.texas.gov or call (512) 438-3161.

Why our residents love us

My parents moved into their Meadows independent living (atrium) apartment almost 2 years ago, from another city. Their (and our) experience here has exceeded our highest hopes. From the compassionate, friendly, helpful staff to the delicious meals, activities, their apartment, amenities, and welcoming residents, we could not have imagined or found a better place for them to be for this season of life! We 5 "kids" are so thankful that they are happy, safe, comfortable, busy, and have made wonderful new friends, both residents and staff. Thank you, MM! It's definitely worth checking out for YOUR parents, too. (Or yourself!)

I learned about Morningside Ministries at Menger Springs when two of my neighbors moved there. Another friend and I frequently drove from our home in Kerrville to visit and play bridge with them. I don't think we ever left that one of us didn't say " I'd like to live here someday." When I realized that "someday" was fast approaching I started visiting retirement communities in several places, including my former home in Colorado where I still had close friends. None of them were as attractive physically as Morningside and none offered as much in the way of programs and services. I chose Morningside for three basic reasons: security, convenience and the sense of a caring community. I have the security of knowing that I will always be cared for, the convenience of having all my needs met in one place and the joy of living in a community where everyone, residents and staff, are considered as family.

My wife and I have been residents in the Independent Living Menger House Apartments at Morningside Ministries at Menger Springs for four years. We chose Menger Springs because of its Hill Country location, excellent and beautiful facilities along with their commitment to personal care and to truly care for those who have cared for so many others by a Not For Profit Christian Corporation. We knew that regardless of what challenges or changes we might meet in the days and years ahead, Menger Springs would be able to provide the care for us. My wife feels so secure here and has the option of participating in so many activities, pursue individual endeavors or to feel free to remain in our apartment. We are so pleased to be residents at Morningside Ministries Menger Springs in beautiful Boerne! I highly recommend it!

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Fill in your contact information to learn more about Morningside Ministries and all we offer.