On June 27^th, the Department of Health (DOH) issued Dear Administrator Letter (DAL) DACF # 23-17 relating to Resident Council expectations for adult care facilities (ACFs).

The guidance requires ACFs to assist residents to organize and maintain committees, councils, or such other self-governing body as the residents may choose. Providers must ensure that the residents’ organization meets as often as its members deem necessary; is chaired and directed by the residents; and may meet with any member of the supervisory staff, provided that reasonable notice of the request is given to such staff. The guidance sets forth reasonable expectations for facilities on this requirement.

If a facility does not have an assigned ombudsman, they may call or email the local ombudsman to confirm their availability to work with residents. Ombudsman information is available online here. ACFs may also outreach the appropriate regional office of the Department.

For questions regarding the DAL, facilities may contact DOH via email to acfinfo@health.ny.gov.

Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8383