Hospitalists are board-certified physicians and Nurse Practitioners who
exclusively work inside the hospital. They will serve as your primary
care providing during your time in the hospital and will help coordinate
your care with any medical specialists that can aid in your treatment.
While at RRH, you may be cared for by one or more hospitalists. If your
care is transferred to another hospitalist due to a rotation in the schedule,
the new hospitalist will be given a complete update on your status and
should be as informed on your care as the hospitalist you worked with before.
What Does a Hospitalist Do?
Hospitalists perform many tasks for patients within the hospital. Because
their entire job takes place in the hospital, they are extremely familiar
with the various departments, staff, and specialists in RRH. A hospitalist
will always be on staff to answer any of your questions or concerns during
your stay.
While in the hospital, your hospitalist will:
Keep contact with your regular care provider so they can stay updated on
your condition
Address any emergencies or changes in your condition
Order tests and schedule meetings with medical specialists on your behalf
Transfer your care to another department when appropriate
Start preparing you for discharge
Provide prescriptions for any medications you need
Answer your questions as well as questions from your family
Our hospitalists will get your primary care physician’s contact information
from the forms you filled in before your admission. Your regular primary
care physician can visit you and assist in your care as well, but because
doctors typically have busy schedules and are not as familiar with the
hospital’s operations, your day-to-day care will be in good hands
with the hospitalist. If you do not have a primary care provider, we can
provide you with a referral to one in the local area upon your discharge.