Culver executive order addresses long-term care ombudsman flap

Late May 28, Culver issued Executive Order Number 24 separating the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman  from the Department on Aging and implementing a search for someone to replace the retiring ombudsman Jeanne Yordi.

“The restructuring mandated by this Executive Order will ensure there is no appearance of impropriety," said Culver.

He has come under fire from critics, including former Republican Gov. Terry Branstad for populating “key state agencies with leaders less interested in serving Iowans and more interested in keeping Iowans in the dark about the activities of (Culver's) administration.”

Branstad who is seeking the GOP nomination to run against Culver has charged Culver has tried to thwart Yordi's advocacy on behalf of seniors.

The criticism is based on e-mails from John McCalley, director of the department, to Yordi's staff saying “the governor's office” had to approve any efforts by the ombudsmen to advocate for, or against, state and federal legislation dealing with the elderly.

To ensure a seamless transition between Yordi June 16 and the appointment of a replacement, Culver appointed former Rep. Ro Foege, D-Mount Vernon, to be interim Long-Term Care Ombudsman.

Culver also said he has “full faith” in McCalley “who shares his commitment to an independent and effective ombudsman,” the governor said.

McCalley has always acted in the best interest of older Iowans and their caregivers, according to Sen. Jack Hatch and Rep. Lisa Heddens, co-chairs of the Health and Human Services Appropriations Committee.

“In fact, there's no evidence to the contrary,” they said. “That's why we are confident that John will ensure that the new long-term care ombudsman will be an independent advocate on behalf of older Iowans.”