Long-term care administrators' perceptions of the ombudsman program in the state of Missouri.

The presence of a long-term care ombudsman in a long-term care or nursing facility helps prevent abusive or neglectful situations before they start. Almost all Missouri long-term care facility administrators responding to the survey reported that they were aware of the ombudsman program; however, only half currently house an ombudsman in their facility. Respondents aware of the program were significantly more likely to currently accommodate an ombudsman in their facility, and those managing larger facilities were significantly more likely to currently have an ombudsman present. Given the numerous changes in the long-term care system, the need for more ombudsman advocates in this setting is crucial.