Hospitalist Program

What is a Hospitalist?

A hospitalist is a physician who specializes in the care of hospitalized patients and their unique conditions. Hospitalists typically specialize in internal medicine, although there are some hospitalists trained in family medicine and pediatrics. Our hospitalists are board-certified or board-eligible in internal medicine. Because hospitalists do not maintain a practice outside of the hospital, they can focus all of their attention on patients inside of the hospital. Hospitalists manage your hospital care, coordinating and consulting with specialists, monitoring your progress and staying in close touch with you and your family. The assistance of other physicians, nurses and support staff allows us to deliver a coordinated team approach to your care. While managing the entire inpatient care process, the hospitalist will keep in close contact with your primary care physician.

Why a Hospitalist?

Hospitalists are an asset to Person Memorial Hospital’s patient–centered approach. Because our hospitalists are fully committed to patients’ care during their stay, patients feel confident knowing hospitalists will devote more time to their healthcare needs. By working with the patient from the time of admission, the hospitalist can better determine when tests should be run, promptly interpret the test results and personally check on the patient more frequently. By directing the patient care process, the hospitalist can coordinate a more timely and efficient hospital experience, often including earlier discharge from the hospital.

What are the benefits of hospitalist care?

Hospitalists work only in the hospital and are available day and night. They closely monitor you during your hospitalization and are accessible in cases of emergencies and whenever concerns arise. Hospitalists are very familiar with the hospital’s systems and functions, as well as specialists and departments within the hospital. This knowledge ensures fast turnaround of tests and treatments and provides the highest quality of care in a timely and personalized manner.

How does the Hospitalist Program work?

When you are admitted to Person Memorial Hospital, your primary care physician entrusts your care to the hospitalist team. The hospitalist is responsible for making a diagnosis and forming the best possible treatment plan for you while hospitalized. Hospitalists will see you throughout your stay until you are well enough to be discharged. Although hospitalists do not provide outpatient follow-up care, they do communicate with your primary care physician to ensure a smooth transition for follow-up care. If you do not have a primary care physician, Person Memorial Hospital can help you find one who can manage your care after you go home.