During your stay at Columbus Regional Hospital, your care may be managed by a Hospitalist. Hospitalists based at Columbus Regional Health work as partners with your primary care physician during your hospital stay.
What is a Hospitalist?
In the same way that cardiologists specialize in the care of heart patients, hospitalists are medical physicians who specialize in the care of patients that require a hospital stay. Hospitalists are on-site at the hospital seven days a week, 24 hours a day to provide you with ongoing and immediate care. They work as partners with your physician to provide you with the highest quality of care during your hospital stay.
Why isn't my regular physician seeing me in the hospital?
While you are in the hospital, your physician has asked one of the on-site hospitalists working at Columbus Regional Hospital to care for you and your medical needs. Hospitalists often admit patients for physicians who prefer to concentrate their efforts and expertise in the office setting. Hospitalists are experts in the care of hospitalized patients and will be able to see you multiple times each day if necessary.
Will my physician and the hospitalist work together?
While you are in the hospital, a hospitalist will consult with your physician and maintain regular communication with him or her during your stay. In turn, your physician can provide the hospitalist with valuable information about your medical history, medications and special needs.
What happens when I leave the hospital?
Once you are discharged from the hospital, your primary care physician will resume responsibility for your medical care. Your hospitalist will communicate with your physician to help ensure a smooth transition. For those patients who do not have their own physician, they will be referred to a qualified physician who will care for them after leaving the hospital.