The Hospital Maze
I think anyone who is hospitalized needs an advocate. More and more patients are subjected to unnecessary procedures and tests. If there isn't a primary care doctor involved or the patient's specialist, the hospital uses what is called a hospitalist. A hospitalist is a doctor who oversees the care. Sometimes primary care doctors hand over the care. A hospitalist doesn't know the patient or family and the only focus is the disease. In essence, it is a good concept but it falters dramatically in practice. I get calls from family members who find their loved one suddenly worse off since being hospitalized. They call me in a panic often because the care has become so confusing and with no end in sight. AND often the hospital acts like the family are rabid dogs for demanding answers and results. An knowledgeable advocate is what the family needs to break through the logger jam and get things moving. An advocate can be a neutral party to ruffle feathers, streamline care and get results! It is only going to get worse as insurance presses the vice tighter. When the hospitals know an advocate is involved, they are more receptive and attentive. Everyone needs an advocate for the best quality care.
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