If you or a loved one is admitted to the hospital, you may meet a specialist known as a hospitalist who leads the care of inpatients. CentraState hospitalist Irfana Khan, MD, FHM, shares more about these physicians and how they help patients navigate their hospital stay.
Hospitalists are…
Champions For Quality
A hospitalist is a highly trained physician specializing in hospital medicine, a subspecialty of internal medicine. They coordinate the medical team treating the patient within the hospital setting. Hospitalists help ensure high-quality care and improve patient safety.
Captains of Care
As the “captains” of the care team, hospitalists see patients regularly throughout their stay. They manage diagnostic tests and treatment as well as consultations with other physicians. In addition, hospitalists can order any necessary follow-up testing in a timely manner, and they’re readily available to quickly respond to any sudden change in conditions.
Professional Problem-Solvers
Hospitalists have excellent interpersonal skills to develop a bond with their patients. They understand the worries that come with illness and hospitalization, and they provide reassurance for patients and their families. Hospitalists are committed to quickly identifying problems and determining solutions that lead to the best outcomes.
Foremost Facilitators
Inpatients may wonder where their primary care physician (PCP) is when admitted to the hospital. Typically, the hospitalist is the physician who manages the patient’s care throughout their stay while keeping their PCP consistently informed. Hospitalists collaborate with other physicians to facilitate a holistic, dynamic and integrated care plan for each patient.
Clear Communicators
Hospitalists are well versed in listening to and communicating with patients, their families, and the healthcare team from admission to discharge. A hospitalist translates complex medical terms and procedures for patients and their loved ones in clear, concise ways.
“Hospitalists must be able to think on their feet to manage a changing, diverse patient population,” Dr. Khan says. “Every day is a gift to have the opportunity to care for patients during such a vulnerable time.”
