Partial federal government shutdown
HCA does not anticipate any immediate impacts to our services or disruption to provider payments at this time. We will continue to monitor the situation and share updates if anything changes.
HCA does not anticipate any immediate impacts to our services or disruption to provider payments at this time. We will continue to monitor the situation and share updates if anything changes.
Behavioral health organizations (BHOs) must demonstrate effective mechanisms for reviewing consumer complaints. Ombudsman (ombuds) services can help.
Ombuds services are transitioning to the Office of Behavioral Health Advocates (OBHA).
Ombuds are now called behavioral health advocates.
Ombuds are people with lived experience in behavioral health who know services well and can help people navigate and resolve problems. Behavioral Health Ombuds services are available throughout the state. Ombuds can assist resolve issues with behavioral health services in both mental health and substance use. Ombuds services are primarily for individuals receiving Medicaid services.
The Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy (OBHA) is replacing the former behavioral health ombuds. Visit OBHA's website for more information.
Ombuds can help people resolve:
Ombuds services are voluntary. If a person chooses to file a grievance themselves, the Ombuds can direct them to the right process.
An Ombuds can help a person understand how to advocate for themselves effectively, or advocate on their behalf. They can advocate for adequate resolution and assist in setting up meetings and negotiations. The goal is always to resolve issues at the lowest level possible.
In addition to assisting with complaints and grievances, Ombuds are also sources for community resource information and referrals for additional services.
Find your region's Ombuds on the OBHA regions webpage.