What Is a Hospitalist? Essay Example

Introduction

The role of hospitalist is important as part of the care and treatment process during hospitalization, as it provides a basis for examining the different areas where patients require greater attention and focus (Nabili & Shiel). Hospitalists are physicians who specialize in providing care and treatment to patients in the hospital environment, and answer questions and direct care as necessary to promote recovery (Nabili & Sheil). This role is relatively new to hospitals yet instrumental because it promotes greater efficiency and supports the needs of patients who require specialized care in different ways (Nabili and Sheil).

Analysis

Some physicians prefer this role rather than to conduct practice in internal medicine for personal reasons, yet many possess board certification in this specialty (Nabili & Sheil). The hospitalist benefits the organization because he or she is able to provide a modicum of care and treatment to patients that is direct and efficient, and it is likely to improve patient safety and cost effectiveness (Nabili & Sheil). Hospitalists specialize in treating patients in the hospital environment and is available to patients on a continuous basis, which is not typically the case for the primary care physician (Newman). Therefore, this role is integral in promoting patient safety, quality, and resource allocation, all of which is designed to facilitate improvements in hospital care and treatment for patients who require these services (Newman).

Conclusion

Organizations typically employ hospitalists in many cases where traditional physicians are stretched thin and are unable to meet the needs of their patients since they have large caseloads (Newman). The hospitalist fills this void and provides a means of engaging patients with their healthcare providers and in supporting a framework that will positively impact patient care and related outcomes through greater attention to patient safety and a focus on improvements that impact care and treatment (Newman).

Works Cited

Nabili, Siamak, and William C. Shiel, Jr. “What is a hospitalist?” MedicineNet.com, 18 October 2014: http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=93946

Newman, James S. “What is a hospitalist?” American College of Physicians, 18 October 2014: http://www.acponline.org/medical_students/career_paths/hospitalist/