There are official channels for raising a concern about a nursing home. This is a general, neutral overview of where those channels are — it is not advice about any specific situation.
Key points
✓State survey agencies handle complaints about certified nursing homes.
✓The Long-Term Care Ombudsman program advocates for residents.
✓CMS and state sites list the official contacts.
State survey agencies
Each state has a survey agency that oversees certified nursing homes and receives complaints. These agencies can investigate concerns and their findings become part of the public CMS record. CMS and state health-department sites publish the contact information.
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman program advocates for residents of nursing homes and other long-term care settings. It is a resource for residents and families who want to raise a concern. Contact details are published by the program and by state aging agencies.
Where to find the official contacts
The official contacts for reporting a concern are listed on CMS and state government sites. This site summarizes public CMS ratings; it does not receive or investigate complaints. Use the official channels for that.
Frequently asked questions
Who handles complaints about nursing homes?▾
Each state's survey agency oversees certified nursing homes and receives complaints, and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program advocates for residents. CMS and state government sites publish the official contacts.
Can I report a concern through this site?▾
No. This site summarizes public CMS ratings and does not receive or investigate complaints. Use the official state survey agency or Long-Term Care Ombudsman channels.
Where do I find the official contacts?▾
On CMS and state government sites, which list the state survey agency and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman for each state.
Verify with official sources
SeniorCareRating.com organizes public CMS data and is not affiliated with CMS or any facility. Confirm current details on the official CMS Care Compare site and with the facility before making decisions.
SeniorCareRating.com summarizes public CMS data. It is not affiliated with CMS, Medicare.gov, or any nursing home. Data may lag current conditions. This is not medical, legal, or care-placement advice — always verify with official sources and qualified professionals.
