What is the Ombuds office?
We are a problem-solving service, independent of BWC and the Industrial Commission of Ohio (IC), which answers complaints and general inquiries about Ohio’s workers’ compensation system.

The Chief Ombuds Officer prepares an annual report, which contains the number, type and outcomes of the complaints handled by this office. The report also includes a list of recommendations, which if implemented will reduce future complaints and improve the quality of service for:

• Employers and their representatives;
• Injured workers and their representatives, and;
• Medical providers.

Click on the links below to view recent reports.
2007 Annual Report | 2006 Annual Report | 2005 Annual Report

How can the Ombuds office help me?
If you don’t understand something or are not satisfied after working with BWC and/or the IC, our office can work with you to resolve your complaint.

What can’t the Ombuds office do for me?
We can’t represent an injured worker or employer in court or at an IC hearing. In addition, we can’t give legal advice nor give an opinion on a BWC or IC hearing order.

When should I call the Ombuds office?
Call our office when you have exhausted all other resources or more information is needed and you don’t know where to turn. You may also contact us if you aren’t satisfied with BWC or IC services, and you have an emergency that requires immediate action. When you call, please have your BWC claim/policy number or your Social Security number available.

What do I do now?
First, try to resolve your complaint through BWC by calling 1-800-OHIOBWC, or by using this Web site. You may also resolve your complaint with the IC by calling 800-521-2691, or by logging on to ohioic.com.

If your problem is still unresolved, contact the Ombuds office at:

Phone: 800-335-0996
Fax: 877-321-9481
E-mail: ombudsperson@bwc.state.oh.us

Ombuds office
30 W. Spring St., fourth floor
Columbus, OH 43215-2256

OR

Ombuds office
615 W. Superior Ave., sixth floor
Cleveland, OH 43113-1889