Getting Help for Critical Care Patients

I came across this YouTube short video a week ago (courtesy of PlainTalkHealth.org) and thought I would post it here, since this Critical Care Nurse's message was important to those of you who may have a loved one as a resident in a long-term care facility.

Here is the link for South Dakotans, should you need help with receiving critical care that is not properly administered: https://dhs.sd.gov/en/ltss/ombudsman-program#

Services

An Ombudsman program may help in the following ways:

• Empower residents to resolve concerns on their own behalf

• Inform people about their rights in long-term care

• Listen to residents and family members when they have concerns or issues

• Make recommendations for protecting the rights of residents and improving their care and quality of life

• Protect health, rights, safety, and welfare of residents

• Work to solve concerns and pursue resolutions through agencies that can assist such as medical providers, social service agencies, government agencies, and legal services

• Work to ensure that state regulations and laws protect residents

• Work with residents to expect excellence in their care

• Work with providers to promote a culture in which people have and can make choices

• Work with family and resident councils

All reports and inquiries are confidential.

The Ombudsman program does not regulate long-term care providers. The program works with providers, resident representatives, residents, and their families to resolve concerns.

Who Is Eligible?

Services are provided to people:

• Who live in a long-term care facility

• Without regard for income and resources

• Requested by or on behalf of a person

  
  

Long-Term Care Facilities

• Nursing facilities

• Assisted living facilities

• Licensed adult foster care homes

• Community living homes

  
  

Resident’s Bill of Rights

The Bill of Rights for Nursing Home and Assisted Living Center is located here: Chapter 44:73:11 and Chapter:44:70:09.

How to Learn More

Email the State Ombudsman at LTCO@state.sd.us.

Read the 2025 Ombudsman Annual Report.

As a state legislator, I will fight to protect patients’ rights. Too often, individuals and families don’t know where to turn or how to get help. I hope this information serves as a useful starting point for those facing serious or critical care decisions. If elected, I will support legislation that upholds and strengthens the rights of patients and their advocates.