Which is a key responsibility of the independent ombudsman?

The role of the independent ombudsman is primarily focused on advocating for residents within long-term care facilities. This includes actively listening to their concerns, addressing complaints, and ensuring that residents’ rights are upheld. By providing a voice for residents' concerns, the ombudsman serves as a vital intermediary between the residents and the nursing home administration, helping to enhance the quality of care and the residents' quality of life.

The other responsibilities listed do not align with the fundamental purpose of the ombudsman. For example, conflict resolution among staff or budget management falls under the purview of management and administrative staff within the nursing home rather than the ombudsman's responsibilities. Similarly, while health inspections are crucial for ensuring facility standards, they are typically conducted by regulatory agencies rather than the independent ombudsman.