Hospitalist Program

Hospitalists are doctors who devote their practice to the care of hospitalized patients.

At Vassar Brothers Medical Center all of our Hospitalists are Board Certified in Internal or Family Medicine, and care for hospitalized patients who have been referred by community primary care doctors, emergency room doctors, or other physicians at the hospital. They do not see patients outside the hospital.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Why is a Hospitalist caring for me?

Your own primary care physician has arranged for a Hospitalist to be in charge of your care during the hospital stay. This gives you the benefit of being seen by a doctor whose practice is entirely focused on the care of hospitalized patients. The Hospitalist and your primary care doctor maintain regular contact.

How does the Hospitalist practice work?

The Hospitalist will be in charge of your care and will see you every day to direct your treatment while you are in the hospital. This doctor and/or nurse practitioner is available to you and your family to answer questions and discuss your care. The Hospitalist works at the hospital full-time to provide for your care and attend to any emergencies that may arise.

The Hospitalist will make arrangements for any prescriptions you may need when you are discharged. You may be asked to make an appointment with your primary care doctor, or other doctors, soon after discharge.

What If I need another specialist while in the hospital?

Consultations from other physicians are necessary in some cases and the Hospitalist can arrange this for you. Please be sure to let your Hospitalist know if any doctors should be informed about your hospital stay.

What if I don't have a regular primary care physician?

The Hospitalists, and other clinical staff in the hospital can assist you in finding a primary care doctor. Your records will be sent to this physician.

Contacting a Hospitalist

While a Hospitalist is on duty 24 hours per day, the best times to reach your hospitalist is between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.