What is a hospitalist?
Hospitalists are trained specialists who oversee the general medical care of patients while they are in the hospital. Hospital medicine is a specialty organized around a site of care rather than a body organ, a disease or a patient’s age. Hospitalists are usually either certified in internal medicine or pediatrics.
Currently, all major Indiana hospitals have hospitalists to address the challenges of inpatient care and patient safety. This service enhances quality and service to patients.
Where will I find a hospitalist?
Hospitalists practice on site in the hospital, so we are present whenever a patient or family member has a question regarding care. We are also familiar with how to expedite and improve care within the hospital.
Why would my doctor choose to utilize a hospitalist’s expertise?
The care of hospitalized patients is becoming increasingly more sophisticated and complex. With the permission of your personal doctor, a hospitalist helps provide safe, effective, and efficient care while you are in the hospital. A hospitalist works closely with you and your doctor so that everyone on your care team has the most up-to-date information.
Many studies show that hospitalists can reduce hospital lengths of stay by more than 30 percent and reduce hospital costs by up to 20 percent. Doctors, hospitals, insurers, and economic and quality forces are propelling the shift to hospitalists as a way to improve the efficiency and quality of care for hospitalized patients.
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