What is a Hospitalist? (pdf)
Hospitalists coordinate your care with your physician.
Once you’re admitted to the hospital, your primary care physician contacts a Hospitalist and shares your condition and medical record, allowing the Hospitalist to be fully informed about you and your illness. The process is similar to what happens when your physician refers you to a specialist for additional tests and treatments.
During your hospital stay, your primary care physician and Hospitalist will continue to work together on your treatment.
When you are discharged, your Hospitalist will discuss any further treatment needs with your primary care physician, help arrange follow-up and prescribe any necessary medications. He or she will also update your primary care physician with your latest hospital records.
Your Hospitalist is there to:
- Order and receive your test results
- Coordinate with your family doctor
- Consult with your specialists
- Discuss treatment options
Your Hospitalist can provide post-hospital care plans, including:
- Medication upon discharge
- Follow-up care
- Therapy
- Assistance from social service agencies
Most importantly, the Hospitalist is available to you and your family at any time, day or night. When you need a doctor, he or she is there for you.