The Department is dedicated to protecting the rights of those who receive its services. Promoting clients' rights and interests is known as advocacy. To implement this important activity, the Department operates a Consumer Advocacy Division.
Consumer Advocacy Division
To advocate for a consumer is to defend their rights and to promote their interest. The Consumer Advocacy division accomplishes this in many different ways.
The Consumer Advocacy monitors facilities to ensure they comply with applicable treatment standards, as well as state and federal laws and guidelines. Regular monitoring enhances the quality of life for consumers by promoting effective communication between staff members, consumers and families and in identifying potential problem areas.
Educating consumers of their rights is a critical function of Advocacy. Equally important is increasing staff knowledge of consumer rights. One way this is accomplished is by participating in new employee orientation.
The Advocacy division works cooperatively with representatives of the Oklahoma Disability Law Center, the Oklahoma Consumer Council and the Oklahoma National Alliance for the Mentally Ill.
We are also a resource for consumers in finding and accessing services.
Providing information to consumers and families, monitoring treatment facilities, training staff and working with rights organizations are some ways the Consumer Advocacy Division protects and promotes Consumer Rights.
