Dr. Betty Kuffel
Dr. N. Patrick Madigan
Dr. Suzanne Daniell
Dr. Elizabeth White | What is a Hospitalist?
A hospitalist is a physician trained in Internal Medicine or Family Medicine who is based in the hospital to provide your medical care. All of North Valley Hospital’s hospitalists are Board Certified in Internal Medicine. The hospitalist program was created to provide the highest quality hospital experience for our patients.
We Provide Dedicated Medical Care
Most primary physicians practicing in this area participate in the North Valley Hospital’s Hospitalist Program. When admitted to the hospital, patients are in the care of the hospitalist physicians whose single focus is inpatient medicine.
You will have your own hospital-based physician provider who will see you on a daily basis, modify your medication regimen if necessary, and order appropriate tests or procedures. If a consultation with another specialist is required, the hospitalist will arrange this. We will also keep your primary care physician updated as to your status.
We Keep Your Personal Physician Apprised of Your Care
Your personal physician knows you best and will provide care after you leave the hospital. To ensure that you receive the best care, your hospitalist will communicate with your physician while you are in the hospital. In addition, following discharge, your hospitalist will send your physician a full summary of your hospital stay, including post-discharge plans and medications.
We Offer Peace of Mind When You Need It Most
Usually, hospitalization comes unexpectedly and for some people it can be anxiety provoking; the surroundings are unfamiliar, you may not understand the terminology, and above all, you may be uncertain about your condition.
We encourage you to speak to your personal physician about the hospitalist program. After all, at a time when you may be feeling particularly vulnerable, it will be comforting to know that your physician has chosen us to assist in your inpatient care.
Your personal physician will make the arrangements for you if you’re planning a hospital stay. Of course, many hospital visits are not planned. If you come to the Emergency Department and are admitted to the hospital as a result, you’ll have the benefit of care by the hospitalist team.
Contact Us
If you are in the hospital and you or a member of your family wishes to speak to the hospitalist assigned to your care, simply ask your nurse to make the call for you.
For more information about North Valley Hospital’s Hospitalist Program or about any of our inpatient services, please call 863-3500.
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