Hospitalist (Inpatient Physician)

JOB SUMMARY

The Hospitalist is responsible for the care of hospitalized patients from admission through discharge. The role focuses on delivering high-quality, coordinated inpatient care, improving patient outcomes, and ensuring efficient use of hospital resources. The Hospitalist works closely with multidisciplinary teams to manage acute and chronic conditions within the hospital setting.

The role requires a balance of clinical excellence, operational efficiency and strong collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to enhance patient safety, experience and continuity of care.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Clinical Care

· Provide comprehensive medical care to admitted patients.

· Conduct initial patient assessments, develop treatment plans, and manage ongoing care.

· Conduct quotidian ward rounds and document clinical findings accurately.

· Monitor patient progress and adjust treatment as necessary.

· Manage acute illnesses, exacerbations of chronic diseases, and post-operative medical care.

· Respond promptly to inpatient emergencies and clinical deteriorations.

· Ensure evidence-based clinical practice and adherence to protocols.

Admission, Rounds & Discharge

· Oversee admission processes, including clerking and documentation.

· Lead daily ward rounds and ensure timely review of all patients.

· Coordinate discharge planning to ensure safe and timely transitions of care.

· Prepare discharge summaries, prescriptions, and follow-up plans.

Care Coordination

· Collaborate with specialists, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals.

· Facilitate referrals and consultations with other departments.

· Ensure continuity of care between emergency, inpatient, and outpatient services.

· Participate in multidisciplinary case reviews and discussions.

Patient Safety & Quality

· Develop evidence-based protocols and guidelines and educate medical officers and nurses on the application to care.

· Adhere to clinical protocols, guidelines, and evidence-based practices.

· Participate in quality improvement initiatives and clinical audits.

· Monitor quality improvement and patient safety indicators including but not limited to medication errors, readmissions, adverse events).

· Ensure compliance with infection prevention and control standards..

· Report clinical incidents and participate in root cause analysis ( RCA).

· Maintain accurate, complete, and timely medical records.

· Communicate effectively with patients and families regarding diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

· Provide clear handovers during shift changes.

· Support accreditation requirements (example, Joint Commission International Standards).

Patient Journey and Experience

· Ensure clear communication with patients and families regarding diagnosis, treatment plans and prognosis.

· Demonstrate empathy, mutual respect, and professionalism in all interactions.

· Support smooth patient flow from admission to discharge.

· Participate in improving patient satisfaction (CSAT) and experience (NPS) scores.

Leadership & Supervision

· Supervise medical officers .

· Participate in clinical teaching of junior doctors ..

· Support training and mentoring of clinical staff.

· Participate in clinical meetings, case reviews, ecosystem grand rounds, and departmental activities.

· Engage in continuous professional development (CPD) and stay updated with latest medical practices and guidelines.

Administrative & Operational Duties

· Support hospital policies and clinical governance frameworks.

· Assist in bed management and patient flow optimization.

· Participate in on-call schedules and shift rotations.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

· Medical degree (MBBS or equivalent) from an accredited institution.

· Evidence of having completed NYSC is mandatory.

· Minimum of 5 to 7 years clinical experience

· Valid license to practice medicine.

· Strong clinical and diagnostic skills.

· Must be competent in advanced life support skills.

· Must be computer literate. · Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.

· Empathy and compassion toward patients.

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