The Office of the Long-Term Care Patient Representative

The Office of the Long-Term Care Patient Representative (OLTCPR) provides trained public representatives for specified long-term care residents who may need medical treatment but lack decision-making capacity and have no legally authorized surrogate.

Under California Health and Safety Code § 1418.8, skilled nursing and intermediate care facilities may convene an interdisciplinary team (IDT) to make medical decisions for these residents. As of January 27, 2023, facilities are required to include patient representatives on the IDT. If the facility cannot find a suitable person—such as a friend or family member—OLTCPR provides a trained public patient representative to help ensure the resident’s rights, preferences, and dignity are supported in medical decision-making.

Do We Need to Request a Public Patient Representative?

To request a public patient representative, click the California Patient Representative Information System (CAPRIS) button:

CAPRIS