Hospitalist/Patient Relationships

What is a hospitalist?

A hospitalist physician only treats patients who have been admitted to a hospital. Hospitalists and their partners provide 24-hour coverage in the hos­pital and do not have outpatient medical offices. The hospitalist arranges patient care from admission to discharge. After leaving the hospital, your primary care doctor will resume oversight of your care.

As a single point person overseeing the patient’s care, the hospitalist checks on the patient daily ("rounds") or throughout the day, monitors the patient’s in-hospital care, and works to coordinate care with the patient's primary care physician and other physician specialists. The hospitalist also coordinates scheduling for any tests or procedures that may be recommended and follows up to make sure results are reported.

What is the benefit of a hospitalist?

Hospitalists spend nearly all of their time caring for patients who require hospital care, keeping abreast of the most advanced diagnostic tools and intensive treatment methods available. As a result, your regular doctor can remain in the office and devote more time to keeping you and your family healthy.

How does the hospitalist know me?

You are referred to a hospitalist by another doctor, usually the emergency room physician or your primary care doctor. If you do come through the emergency room, please inform the hospitalist of your primary care doctor. If you do not have one, the hospitalist can refer you to a doctor for follow-up care.

How does the hospitalist know about my condition?

Hospitalists take your medical history, conduct a physical examination, order needed diagnostic tests, and when necessary, speak with your other doctors. When you are admitted to the hospital, your primary care doctor can inform the hospitalist of your condi­tion and provide valuable information. This is similar to getting referred to a specialist for another opinion or for more tests.  While you are in the hospital, your hospitalist and primary care doctor may discuss your condition and treatment. Information on your hospital stay and follow-up recommendations will be given to your primary care doctor after you leave the hospital.

Patient Advocacy & Case Manager

The case manager is a nurse who acts as a liaison between you, your family, the hospitalist, your primary care doctor, and sometimes your health plan. The case manager can address any concerns you or your family may have, help with referrals to other needed services, monitor discharge needs or instructions, and much more.
If you have any questions about your stay in the hospital or your discharge, please ask to speak to the case manager.

How do I contact my hospitalist while I am in the hospital?

Your hospitalist and his or her partners will see you as part of their daily rounds. If you or your family wish to contact the hospitalist with other questions, a nurse can arrange this.

Patient Discharge

Your hospitalist is specially trained to take care of you while you are in the hospital. Upon your dis­charge, you should follow-up with your primary care doctor for ongoing care, prescription refills, if needed, or anything else related to your health care needs. If you require another hospital stay, we are here to serve you.