Hospitalists: Partners in Excellent Care

Dedicated hospital-based physicians coordinating your care during your stay

The Hospitalist Program at DCH provides specialized care for patients while they are in the hospital at DCH Regional Medical Center and Northport Medical Center.  Hospitalists are physicians and advanced practice providers who focus exclusively on caring for hospitalized patients, coordinating treatment plans, tests, consultations, and discharge planning as part of your inpatient stay.

What Is a Hospitalist?

A hospitalist is a doctor or advanced practice provider who cares for you only while you are in the hospital.  Hospitalists typically complete residency training in internal medicine or family medicine and then specialize in hospital medicine, concentrating on managing acute illnesses and complex medical needs that require inpatient care.

How the Hospitalist Program Supports Your Care

During your hospital stay, the hospitalist team:
• Performs daily rounds, checking on your condition, reviewing tests, and adjusting treatment plans
• Orders and interprets lab work, imaging, and other diagnostic tests
• Coordinates with specialists involved in your care (such as cardiology, surgery, or pulmonology)
• Communicates with your primary care provider or referring physician about your hospital stay and discharge plan
• Helps arrange home health, rehabilitation, follow‑up appointments, and equipment as needed for a safe transition home

Because hospitalists are based on the hospital units, they are available to respond quickly to changes in a patient’s condition and to answer questions from patients and families.

What Happens After You Leave the Hospital

Once you are discharged:
• Your ongoing care returns to your primary care provider or specialist.
• The hospitalist sends a summary of your hospital stay, including test results, diagnoses, and medications, to your outpatient provider when possible.
• If you have questions about your hospitalist visit after you go home, you can contact Capstone Hospitalist Group at (205) 343‑8255.