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Questions Frequently Asked of the Hospitalists
Why does my family doctor not provide my care in the hospital?
- Your doctor’s office may be a significant distance from St. Edward Mercy which would make it difficult for him or her to see you quickly in case of an emergency. The Hospitalist physicians have offices in the hospital so that they can quickly respond to any emergency.
 Hospitalists are specialized in caring for hospitalized patients. By their continuous presence in the hospital, they are able to respond more rapidly to test results, which may mean a shorter and often less costly hospitalization. Their presence in the hospital makes them more readily available to communicate with your family. - Your primary care physician knows that they will be much more available to you for an appointment in their office when they delegate their hospital responsibilities.
- Patients admitted to hospitals are much sicker than they were in the past. This increasing complexity of care may be more easily managed by physicians who specialize in caring for only hospitalized patients. Our experience in caring for many patients with similar illnesses should provide you with a high level of expertise.
Will my family doctor be informed of my diagnosis and treatment?
- We go to great lengths to assure that your doctor is informed of all aspects of your illness and care. When you leave the hospital, the Hospitalist will send your family physician a complete summary of your illness and treatment as well as the results of your tests and a listing of your medications.
- You will also have a follow-up appointment scheduled with your family doctor at the time of hospital discharge.
When will the Hospitalist doctor see me?
- Rounds are usually made between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Patients with the most urgent medical needs will be seen first.
How can my family speak with the hospital physician?
- Your family members will hopefully be present when the physician sees you on his rounds. When the Hospitalist misses family members on rounds, the nurse can page the doctor to talk with your family or set up a time for the doctor to contact them.
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