Medicare Benefit Policy Manual (Pub. 100-02), Ch. 2 § 60
Social Services
60 - Social Services
(Rev. 253, Issued: 12- 14-18, Effective: 01-16-19, Implementation: 01- 16-19)
In accordance with 42 CFR 412.27 and 42 CFR 482.62, there must be a director of social
services who monitors and evaluates the quality and appropriateness of social services
furnished. The services must be furnished in accordance with accepted standards of
practice and established policies and procedures..
1. The director of the social work department or service must have a Master’s degree
from an accredited school of social work or must be qualified by education and
experience in the social services needs of the mentally ill. If the director does not
hold a Master’s degree in social work, at least one staff member must have this
qualification.
2. Social service staff responsibilities must include, but are not limited to,
participating in discharge planning, arranging for follow-up care, and developing
mechanisms for exchange of appropriate information with sources outside the
hospital.