Administration

 To pursue this mission, we will strive:

• To understand that the Department of Health and Human Services exists to serve the people of Sacramento County.
• To develop and maintain programs which reflect community diversity and are the most responsive and cost effective.
• To value County staff by treating them with dignity, respect, and fairness and by promoting their safety and welfare.
• To appreciate the multicultural and experiential diversity of employees and the community as a whole.
• To enable employees to perform to their fullest potential by providing the necessary resources to accomplish objectives.
• To create a service environment which removes obstacles, promotes innovation, and maximizes productivity.
• To build a cohesive team committed to integrity, honesty, creativity, humor, competence, accountability, and communication.
• To plan for inevitable change.

​What is an Ombudsman?
“Ombudsman” is a Swedish term of long and honorable tradition. It means protector or defender of citizen’s rights.

• Conducts independent reviews of complaints concerning Agency policies or practices.
• Ensure that policies and practices are consistent with the goals and missions of the Department of Health & Human Services.
• Ensures that individuals are treated fairly, respectfully and with dignity.
• Makes referrals and recommendations when appropriate.

• We will provide information, answer questions and/or identify staff or resources to address your issues.
• We will research Agency policies and procedures that may assist you in resolving your complaint.
• We will assure that matters are treated in a confidential manner as appropriate.
• We will facilitate prompt resolutions of complaints in an independent, impartial, objective and professional manner.

• We do not have the authority to overturn a court decision or make recommendations to the court.
• We cannot investigate matters when appeals or lawsuits are pending against the County.
• Personnel and disciplinary matters are referred to an Agency manager for the appropriate action.
• We are unable to give legal advice.
• We cannot ensure implementation of any recommendation made following our investigation.

• Keep good records, take notes, and save all of your documents. Keep the names of the agency staff you have contacted.
• Contact the following people in the order listed prior to calling the Ombudsperson:
• Your Social Worker or Case Manager
• His/Her Supervisor
• His/Her Program Manager
• If you don’t get satisfaction, then contact the Ombudsperson’s office.
• We are just a phone call away.