Patient Care: Division of Hospital Medicine

What is a Hospitalist?

Hospitalists are physicians who specialize in providing care for the hospitalized patient. We are experts in how hospitals work, so we are able to coordinate care from the minute a patient arrives at the hospital to the time of discharge. We coordinate all aspects of care, including ordering of tests, consulting with specialists, and communicating with primary care physicians to provide patients seamless care. In addition to our patient care responsibilities, hospitalists hold positions of leadership within the hospital.

Our hospitalists are committed to continually improve the quality and safety of the care provided to our patients at Georgetown University Hospital.

When Might you Meet a Hospitalist?

Hospitalists are present in the hospital 24/7 to ensure patients receive the best care. A hospitalist may be assigned to care for a patient admitted to the hospital with one or more medical problems. At Georgetown University Hospital, hospitalists are board certified in Internal Medicine and manage a wide breadth of diseases. Your physicians may also consult with a hospitalist during your hospital stay. Hospitalists have an expertise in perioperative care, so a surgeon may consult with a hospitalist to ensure that a patient receives the highest quality of care before and after surgery.

Other Activities that Enhance Patient Care

Several of our hospitalists serve as the Medical Directors for patient units, act as Physician Safety Officers, and participate in hospital-wide committees. We have a dedicated hospitalist for orthopedic and limb patients as well as a general consultation service.