Hospitalist Program

What is a Hospitalist?

“Hospitalists” are physicians who are dedicated solely to the care of hospitalized patients. They are experts in the specialty area of Hospital Medicine. Our Hospitalist physicians all have a background in Internal Medicine.

How was I referred to the Hospitalist?

There are several ways you may have been referred to the Hospitalist Team:

• Your primary care physician may have decided to partner with the Hospitalist to manage his/her patients in the hospital.
• Your cardiologist, surgeon or other specialist may have asked the Hospitalist physicians to coordinate your overall hospital care, while the specialty doctor focuses on his/her particular area of expertise.
• You may have come to the Emergency Department in need of admission, and either you did not have a primary care physician, or your primary care physician does not see patients at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, or is out of the area.

What are the benefits of having a Hospitalist physician care for me?

At least one Hospitalist physician is present in the hospital from early morning into the evening, seven days a week. Because they are physically in the hospital, Hospitalist physicians are able to:

• Stay in close communication with you and your family and be easily available to answer questions.
• Respond in person to changes in your condition or emergencies that may arise.
• Act quickly on the results of tests or the recommendations of specialists.
• Work closely with all members of your health care team, including your primary care physician.
• Plan a smooth discharge to home, rehabilitation or your next destination.

How will the Hospitalist know about my medical history?

In addition to obtaining a detailed history from you, the Hospitalist can communicate with your primary care physician on your arrival and throughout your hospital course.

What if I need a specialist?

If your condition requires care from one or more specialists, the Hospitalist physician will work closely with the specialist during your stay.

How does the Hospitalist Team communicate with each other?

If you are hospitalized overnight, you may be cared for by several Hospitalist physicians and the Hospitalist nurse practitioner. The Hospitalist Team discusses your individual needs and treatment every day, thus assuring your continuity of care.

What happens when I am ready to leave the hospital?

The Hospitalist is the leader of your care team, and will coordinate all your discharge needs and communicate directly to your physician to ensure a smooth transition.

Because the Hospitalist only practices within the hospital, it is very important that you follow up with your primary care physician upon discharge. Your primary care physician will provide care once you leave the hospital.

The Hospitalist Team will send a written summary about your care to your primary care physician and other specialists. If you do not have a primary care physician, the team can help you identify high-quality, convenient options for primary care follow-up in your community.