When should I get the Office of Ombudsman involved?
An ombuds is a neutral participant that facilitates the process, so going to an ombuds office is different from filing for an appeal. They do not address the actual complaint; they are there to assist in the ease of the process.
An ombudsperson becomes involved in conflict after prevention and disagreement. If the dispute cannot be solved after disagreement, individuals have the options of facilitation, mediation, and the Office of Ombudsman. If the conflict continues, an ombudsperson can be present throughout procedural safeguards and legal review to ensure that both parties are equally understood.
For more information about working with an ombudsperson in an education, insurance, or public benefits dispute, see our article What Is an Ombudsman?.