What is a hospitalist?
A hospitalist is a physician whose practice is dedicated entirely to the care of hospitalized patients. Since their sole practice is within the hospital itself, they have no additional doctor’s office in the community. Hospitalists generally work in teams to provide 24-hour coverage for their hospitalized patients. The hospitalist is often an internal medicine specialist, though some are trained in subspecialties like critical care or geriatrics. The hospitalist’s activities may also include serving on hospital committees, teaching, research, and leadership related to hospital patient care.
A hospitalist is a physician who manages your care in the hospital. Usually trained in internal medicine, a hospitalist has the skills and expertise needed to provide care specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of hospitalized patients and their families. Because a hospitalist has a special focus on patients in the hospital, he or she is more accessible to manage your inpatient care. A hospitalist can help by following up on tests and adjusting your treatment throughout the day as necessary. The hospitalist is also close by in case of an emergency and is available to spend more time talking in person with you and your family about your care. The hospitalist works collaboratively with your primary care doctor and will keep them updated on your hospital stay. After discharge, you will be referred back to your primary care doctor for follow up care.
Related Questions
- If CPOE and E-signature are used infrequently by a physician at a Meridian hospital or if they refer his/her patients to a hospitalist, will they be subject to these eligibility requirements?
- How many times does a hospitalist have to see a patient to report the "same day admit/discharge" codes?
- Does advanced medical technology encourage hospitalist use and their direct employment by hospitals?
