What is an Ombudsman?
An Ombudsman works to protect an individual’s rights and freedoms through independent supervision
Independently Guiding Corrections to Improved Health and Wellness For All!
The independently operated Office of the Ombudsman (Office), run by Lauren “Laurie” M. Andersen, MM, RN, CEN, CCRN, Ombudsman and Executive Director of the Office, reporting to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS), serves at the independent health and wellness adviser to the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC).
Mission Statement
Promoting a healthy environment for all those who live
or work in MA Department of Correction Facilities
The mission of the Office of the Ombudsman (Office) is to promote a healthy environment for all those who live or work in MA Department of Correction (DOC) facilities. In a post-pandemic climate, the Office will focus its efforts on advising the DOC on both general infection control and wellness initiatives. The Office shall develop comprehensive health and wellness initiatives, as well as training and education programs. Thereafter, collaboratively with the DOC, the Office shall implement those health and wellness programs that positively impact the DOC culture and climate for the benefit of all. The Office believes that improving the wellness of DOC staff will positively impact incarcerated individuals.
Lauren “Laurie” M. Andersen, MM, RN, CEN, CCRN
Director/Ombudsman – Office of the Ombudsman
Mental Health Awareness Videos for Corrections Staff
If you or someone you know is in crisis or thinking about suicide, please call 988 – the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline!
Asking for help is a sign of strength, not a sign of weakness!
The Ripple Effects of Suicide
Suicide Prevention for MA Department of Correction Staff
Mental Health Awareness for MA Department of Correction Staff
Anxiety and Depression for MA Department of Correction Staff
Substance Use Awareness for MA Department of Correction Staff
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder for MA Department of Correction Staff
News & Announcements
The latest from the Office of the Ombudsman
Office to Attend ACCJH Conference in March ’25 in Austin, Texas
Staff from the Office of the Ombudsman will attend the 18th annual Academic Consortium on Criminal Justice Health (ACCJH) Conference in Austin, TX, in March 2025. We look forward to implementing insights from the ACCJH Conference at the MA DOC.
Office Staff to Attend Fraternal Order of Police Officer Wellness Summit in February 2025
Staff look forward to attending the 2025 Officer Wellness Summit in February 2025, in Tennessee, hosted by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). We look forward to implementing key takeaways at the MA DOC. To learn more about the FOP 2025 Officer Wellness Summit, visit the FOP website for the event here.
Afternoon Eat and Greet at MCI-Shirley
Free Box Lunch from the Ombudsman MCI -Shirley Staff – Start your shift off right with a free meal provided by the Office of the Ombudsman. Where: MCI-Shirley When: Beginning 2:00PM on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025! Office representatives will be at the entrance when you arrive for your shift.
Afternoon Eat and Greets at BPR & LSH
Free Box Lunch from the Ombudsman BPR and LSH Staff – Start your shift off right with a free meal provided by the Office of the Ombudsman. Where: BPR & LSH When: Beginning 2:00PM on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025! Office representatives will be at the entrance when you arrive for your shift.