An Introduction to Hospitalists of Central Virginia.

The Hospitalists of Central Virginia team of physicians is experienced and skilled in the latest hospital treatments and the most effective ways to deliver services to you. They are all board certified/eligible in Family Medicine or Internal Medicine, and specialize in providing primary medical care to hospitalized patients. Unlike many other physicians, they are able to care for you 24 hours a day, thus assuring that you and your family receive high quality, responsive attention and care.

They will coordinate and manage your total primary inpatient medical care - from your admission through your discharge and post-discharge services.

 We hope the answers to the following questions help make your stay with us a more comfortable experience.

Who will be my doctor while I'm in the hospital?

During your hospital stay, the Hospitalists of Central Virginia physicians will assume the role of your family physician by:
• Admitting you to the hospital
• Diagnosing your condition
• Closely monitoring your progress

If you are hospitalized overnight, you will most likely be examined by more than one Hospitalist. Each physician works as a member of a team - communicating with other team members about your individual needs - thus assuring you continuity of care.

How will the Hospitalists care for me?

To ensure that you receive optimal care, Hospitalists are available in the hospital 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to:
• Examine you daily
• Order appropriate diagnostic testing, treatments and subspecialty consultations
• Review your test results as they become available
• Monitor your progress
Consult with other Hospitalists, subspecialists and your primary care physician as needed about your diagnosis, treatment and progress
• Communicate with you and your family regarding your condition, treatment options, recovery expectations, patient education and discharge planning

Will I need a specialist?

If your condition requires care from a subspecialist, such as a surgeon or cardiologist, your Hospitalist will order the consultation. Depending upon your medical needs, a Hospitalist may coordinate your care with the subspecialist or turn your care over to the subspecialist. As you progress, the subspecialist may turn your care back over to the Hospitalist.

Will my primary care physician be involved in my care?

Absolutely! Patients are referred to a Hospitalist by another physician, such as a primary care physician or a hospital emergency department physician. The Hospitalists and referring physician communicate with each other regularly concerning your care while you are hospitalized, thus assuring continuity of care.

When you are ready to be discharged from the hospital, your Hospitalist will do so promptly, in a timely and efficient manner. You will be referred back to your primary care physician who will provide for your follow-up and routine care. Hospitalists specialize in the primary medical care for hospitalized inpatients and do not provide in-office outpatient care.

Who will answer my questions?

Your Hospitalists or subspecialists will discuss your medical condition, treatment options and recovery expectations with your and will keep your family updated regarding your medical status.

If you have any questions or concerns, or if you want more information, be sure to ask one of your physicians during your examination. You and your family are encouraged to take an active role in your treatment and recovery process. It is important to your recovery and your quality of life that you, your family and your physicians all work together as a team. The better you understand your illness and treatment, the better you can help prevent complications and future illnesses.

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

If you do not have a primary care physician, we will gladly assist you in finding one to meet your needs. Please be certain to keep all scheduled appointments as follow-up medical care is very important to your health after you leave the hospital.

What must I do if I can't be cared for at home?

If you are unable to be cared for at home after you are discharged from the hospital, please let us know early in your stay so that we can help you make arrangements for your continued care.

Thank you for entrusting your care to Hospitalists of Central Virginia.