What is a hospitalist?
Hospitalists are doctors who devote their practice solely to the care of hospitalized patients. They are available around the clock to care for patients at NRMC who don’t have referring physicians or those whose referring physicians may not care for patients in the hospital.

Hospitalists don’t have private office practices like other doctors.  They focus only on patients during their stay at NRMC.  As a result, hospitalists overseeing general medical care of hospitalized patients are highly suited to managing health issues commonly encountered by these patients.

What will the hospitalist do for me?
The hospitalist will be in charge of your care, direct your treatment, and visit you everyday throughout your hospital stay.  Because this doctor only practices in the hospital, he or she is readily available to you and your family to answer questions, discuss your care and address any emergencies that might arise while you are here. The hospitalist might also consult your physician specialist about your care if necessary.

What happens after I leave the hospital?
The hospitalist will prescribe any necessary medications you might require when you are discharged from NRMC; however, since hospitalists do not have outpatient medical practices, you will need to se your primary care doctor after you leave the hospital. You can contact your hospitalist after you leave NRMC if you later have any questions about your stay.

How does the hospitalist work with my doctor?
Many doctors don’t have hospital practices.  Because they see patients only in their office, they have a hospitalist take charge of your care during your stay.  During your stay, your hospitalist works with your primary care physician.  When your admitted to the hospital, your doctor provides information about your medical history and the hosptialist drafts a detailed report of findings and treatment plans for your doctor. Your primary care doctor will take over your care after you leave the hospital.

For more information about the hospitalist program, contact 660-785-1726.