Washington, DC – EIN 521122531 theconsumervoice.org

We were formed in 1975 because of public concern about substandard care in nursing homes. The Consumer Voice is the outgrowth of work first achieved by advocates working for Ralph Nader and later for the National Gray Panthers. Elma Holder, NCCNHR founder, was working with The Long-Term Care Action Project of the Gray Panthers when she organized a group meeting of advocates from across the country to attend a nursing home industry conference in Washington, DC. At that meeting, representatives of 12 citizen action groups spoke collectively to the industry about the need for serious reform in nursing home conditions.

The Consumer Voice is the leading national voice representing consumers in issues related to long-term care, helping to ensure that consumers are empowered to advocate for themselves. We are a primary source of information and tools for consumers, families, caregivers, advocates and ombudsmen to help ensure quality care for the individual.

To carry out our mission, we:

– Advocate for public policies that support quality care and quality of life responsive to consumers’ needs in all long-term care settings
– Empower and educate consumers and families with the knowledge and tools they need to advocate for themselves
– Train and support individuals and groups that empower and advocate for consumers of long-term care
– Promote the critical role of direct-care workers and best practices in quality-care delivery

The Consumer Voice envisions a world in which all consumers of long-term care, services and supports are treated with respect and dignity and have a wide range of affordable, quality options across all settings. These options will make it possible for individuals to receive care and services in the location and manner of their choice and to attain a high quality of life.