Inpatient Care
If you are hospitalized at MercyOne North Iowa, your treatment, while in the hospital, will be under the guidance and direction of our expert team of hospitalists. A hospitalist is a doctor who specializes in internal medicine and is committed to providing the best of care. When you leave the hospital, the hospitalists sends your doctor a complete summary of your illness and treatment, including test results and medications.
Following are some questions often asked about the hospitalist program and your stay at MercyOne North Iowa:
Can I ask questions?
Yes! You are an important partner in your care and we encourage questions. The more you understand about your condition and treatment, the better you can help prevent complications and future problems. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask us to clarify something you do not understand.
When will the doctor see me?
The hospitalist begins patient visits at 7:00 a.m. each day. These visits continue throughout the day and in most cases, all patients are seen before noon. A hospitalist is in the hospital 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you would like to contact the hospitalist, please ask your nurse for assistance.
When can my family speak to the doctor?
So that everyone’s questions can be answered, we suggest that you and your family talk with the doctor at the same time. That is most easily accomplished during the time the physician visits your room. We suggest you write down your questions so they can be addressed.
What if I need another specialist while I’m in the hospital?
The hospitalist physician will coordinate your treatment and will help you get specialty care if needed. Depending on your medical condition, the hospitalist may transfer your care to another physician such as a surgeon, cardiologist or other specialist.
