What should I do if the hospital asks me to leave before I feel ready?

Beneficiary Helpline: 1.800.727.7086

If a hospital representative informs you that you will be discharged before you are ready, you may ask for a written explanation. This explanation is called a Notice of Noncoverage. CFMC requires a signed copy of this notice before it can conduct a review of your discharge.

You need to request your review by noon of the first work day after you receive the Notice of Noncoverage. If you meet this requirement, you won’t have to pay for your hospital care until CFMC makes its decision.

If you do not request a review and the hospital provided you with a Notice of Noncoverage, the hospital can bill you for the cost of your stay. The cost to you begins on the third day after you receive the Notice of Noncoverage.

The Colorado Foundation for Medical Care (CFMC), the Medicare quality improvement organization for Colorado, prepared this material under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The contents do not necessarily reflect CMS Policy.