Home :: Dept/Services :: Hospitalist
NBI - Hospitalist FAQ

What is a Hospitalist?

Hospitalists are doctors who devote their skills entirely to taking care of patients in the hospital. At North Baldwin Infirmary, Amy S. Armstrong, M.D., a board certified internist, cares for hospitalized patients who have been referred from primary care doctors, emergency room physicians, or other doctors at the hospital.

What are the advantages of having a hospitalist care for me?

Traditionally, primary care physicians have taken care of both clinic patients and those individuals in the hospital. A good way to think of a hospitalist is as the primary care physician's partner. The hospitalist allows inpatients access to a physician throughout the day, while enabling your primary care doctor to focus on patients in the clinic.

How will my primary care doctor know when I'm in the hospital?

When you are admitted to the hospital, Dr. Armstrong will notify your physician and request records from your doctor's office. During your stay, she will communicate with your doctor.

Can my doctor still visit me in the hospital?

Yes. Having a hospitalist care for you does not exclude your primary care physician from seeing you in the hospital.

How can my family and I communicate with the hospitalist?

Dr. Armstrong will visit each patient at least one time each day. If your family is not available at that time or if you have further questions, Dr. Armstrong is available to you throughout the day.

What happens when I am discharged from the hospital?

When you are discharged from the hospital, Dr. Armstrong will send your doctor a letter summarizing the care you received while you were in the hospital. The letter will include instructions that Dr. Armstrong gave to you when you were discharged and the names of any medicines she prescribed for you.