Purpose and Scope of Services
All faculty, staff and learners are welcome to talk with the Ombuds about any concern relating to their experience and well-being at OHSU. For common topics and to learn what the Ombuds does, go to When to See the Ombuds.
Ombuds Charter
The Ombuds is guided by an OHSU charter and the International Ombuds Association (IOA) Standards of Practice. The IOA standards require the Ombuds to function independently, be confidential and neutral, and limit the scope of services to informal dispute resolution.
Confidentiality
No written or verbal reports are made. OHSU will not require disclosure but, although rare, an external legal authority may compel disclosure. Exceptions to confidentiality are limited to imminent threats to safety and mandatory reporting, such as child abuse.
Neutrality
The Ombuds, as a designated neutral, remains unaligned and impartial, not engaged in any conflict of interest or personal stake in a situation.
Informality
The use of the Ombuds is voluntary. The Ombuds does not participate in any formal processes and has no decision-making authority.
Independence
The Ombuds is independent in structure and function to the highest degree possible within the organization, reporting for administrative purposes only.