CMS Pub. 100-02, ch. 1, § 10.1.6

A3-3101.1.F, HO-210.1.F

The law contemplates that Medicare patients should not be assigned to ward

accommodations except at the patient's request or for a reason consistent with the

purposes of the health insurance program.

When ward accommodations are furnished at the patient's request or for a reason

determined to be consistent with the program's purposes, payment will be based on the

average per diem cost of routine services (see §10.1.1 above). Where ward

accommodations are assigned for other reasons, the law provides what may be a

substantial penalty. (See §10.1.6.2 below).

Any request by the patient (or relative or other person responsible for his or her affairs)

for ward accommodations must be obtained by the provider in writing and kept in its

files.