Board-certified in internal medicine or pediatrics, Atlantic Health System hospitalists are physicians who specialize in the care of hospitalized patients, both adults and children. Our hospitalists provide 24/7 patient-centered care and service, seamless communication with patients, family and caretakers, and superior quality.
When a patient is admitted to the hospital, his or her primary care physician and/or surgeon will bring the hospitalist team up to date on the patient's condition and medical history. Management of care is then transferred to the team, composed of physicians, physician assistants, nurses, nurse practitioners and consultants. The hospitalists stay connected with the patient's primary care physician and keep him or her posted during the patient's hospitalization to ensure a smooth transition back to the primary care physician after the patient leaves the hospital. In addition, our hospitalists care for any hospitalized patients who do not have a primary care physician.
Hospitalists manage each patient’s course through the hospital, ordering diagnostic imaging studies and laboratory tests, and closely monitoring the patient’s progress. All the while, hospitalists remain in close contact with the patient’s primary care physician, communicating test results and discussing whether additional diagnostic testing is necessary.
Hospitalists’ relationships inside the hospital enable them to know the best ways to expedite and improve care within the environment. They are familiar with the key individuals throughout the hospital, including medical and surgery consultants, discharge planners, clergy and others. This means shorter wait times and quicker discharges.
When a patient is preparing to leave the medical center, his or her hospitalist will prepare a discharge plan, including written and verbal instructions and any necessary prescriptions. This plan will also include appointments for follow-up with a primary care physician and relevant specialists.