Semi-Private and Private Rooms
BIDMC has both semi-private (two beds) and private rooms. In most cases, you will be assigned to a semi-private room unless you request otherwise.
Please note that many health insurance plans will not cover the extra cost
of a private room unless it is medically necessary or if no semi-private
rooms are available. There is no extra charge for private rooms in
obstetrics.
Because of space constraints, we ask that you have no more than two visitors at a time in your room.
Your bed can be adjusted to your comfort by using the control panels on the
side rails. Handheld controls are also available. The control panels also
allow you to operate the TV, adjust the lighting in your room, and call
your nurse.
Bring Only Essential Items
Space in the rooms is limited, so you may want to have only essential
items, such as a robe, slippers, and toiletries. Hair dyers are not allowed.
Please keep wireless devices, when powered, at least three feet from
medical equipment to avoid any potential interference.
Meals
Your nurse will explain how you will get your meals
(taking into account any eating restrictions pertaining to your care).
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In some cases, meals are brought to your room at certain times.
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In other cases, you may choose when you wish to receive each meal and
order it yourself.
Either way, you will have a choice of a variety of menu items, depending on
the diet your doctor has prescribed. Special items, such as kosher foods,
can be provided on request.
Room Service Dining
Our Room Service Dining Program lets you order when you feel like eating,
and your meal will arrive within 45 minutes.
Ordering a Meal
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Call 7FOOD (73663) to order patient and guest meals
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Hours:
6:45 a.m. - 7 p.m.
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If you're on a modified or restricted diet, our
nutrition attendant will help you with your selection.
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If you cannot place your own order, we prefer that a family member
assist you.
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You may pre-order up to 3 meals in advance. However, if this is not
possible, we will arrange for meals to be automatically provided.
Visitors who wish to eat with you in your room may purchase guest meal
tickets from the Ullian Café on the East Campus or the Farr Café on the
West Campus.
BIDMC wants all of our patients to receive excellent meals and service.
Feel free to let your room service associate know how we can help satisfy
all of your food service needs.
Telephone & Television
Private Telephone for Each Patient
A private telephone is provided for each patient's use and is hearing-aid compatible. Local calls are free of charge.
There is no charge for receiving incoming calls to your
room. Your family and friends may reach you by:
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Dialing your direct phone number, which you should find posted near
your bed.
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Calling patient information at 617-754-2200. Callers
who ask for you by your full name will be given your direct number
and/or connected to your room, unless you have requested that your
information remain private.
Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf
TTY phones for the deaf and hard of hearing are available on request;
please ask your nurse.
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To reach a TTY relay operator, dial 9-711.
Television
TV service is provided free of charge. At BIDMC, programming is offered in
English, Spanish and Chinese.
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Health information for patients can be found on channel 44 (The Patient
Channel) and channel 45 (Health TV).
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Newborn care information is available in English on channel 46 and in
Spanish on channel 47.
Valuables
Please be aware that the hospital cannot be responsible
for valuable items you may have in your room and cannot reimburse you for
the cost of lost items. To ensure the safety of your belongings:
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Please do not keep credit cards or large amounts of cash in your room.
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All non-essential items and valuables should be sent home, including
clothing, jewelry, purses, cell phones, or any other personal items you
do not need on a daily basis.
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If you are not able to send valuables home, please speak with your
nurse about arranging to place them in a safe at the medical center.
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If you have items you need to keep with you, such as a watch, glasses,
hearing aid, or walker, please be sure to label them.
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If you have dentures, please ask your nurse for a denture cup and make
sure it is labeled.
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Be careful not to put dentures or other personal items on your meal
tray, as these can become lost when trays are returned to the kitchen.