Can Doctors Admit You To Hospital? What You Need To Know

Are you wondering if doctors can admit you to a hospital? Absolutely, this article from thebootdoctor.net, delves into the role of doctors in hospital admissions and offers insights into how healthcare has evolved, particularly concerning primary care physicians and their hospital privileges. Discover how you can ensure a smooth hospital experience with the support of your physician, focusing on care coordination and patient advocacy. Keywords: primary care physician, hospital admission, patient care, care coordination, thebootdoctor.net.

1. Understanding Hospital Admitting Privileges

Hospital admitting privileges grant a doctor the authority to admit patients to a specific hospital. This means a primary care physician (PCP) with these privileges could admit you to a hospital where they’re authorized. However, keep in mind that the hospital with admitting privileges might not always be the closest or the most suitable one for you.

In the past, doctors with admitting privileges were responsible for admitting patients and managing their care during their hospital stay. These doctors would visit the hospital to monitor progress, order tests, prescribe medications, and coordinate procedures.

2. The Shift Away From Admitting Privileges

The healthcare landscape has changed significantly over the past 20 years, leading to a decline in primary care physicians holding hospital admitting privileges. This shift occurred because both hospitals and PCPs recognized the challenges of providing comprehensive patient care under the old model.

Caring for patients in a hospital setting requires a different skill set than what is typically used in a primary care office. Separating these roles has proven to be in the patient’s best interest.

Primary care physicians found that making rounds at the hospital took away valuable time that could have been spent seeing patients in their office. This divided attention resulted in longer wait times and limited availability for office appointments.

Patients also experienced delays in receiving test results and medication adjustments while waiting for their primary care physicians to review their cases. These delays often stretched out to 24 hours, causing unnecessary anxiety and discomfort.

3. The Rise of Hospitalists

These challenges paved the way for the emergence of hospitalists. In the late 1990s, there were no hospitalists, but today, the United States boasts over 50,000 of these specialists, according to a 2015 report in The NEJM Catalyst. More than 75% of hospitals in the country employ hospitalists.

Hospitalists are now the primary point of contact for patient care in the hospital. They act as a patient’s primary care physician during their stay, working with emergency room staff, other specialists, and hospital administrators to determine who gets admitted and when.

The era of primary care physicians routinely admitting their patients based on admitting privileges has largely come to an end.

4. Are Admitting Privileges Still Important?

Not necessarily. With the increasing prevalence of hospitalists, primary care physicians’ admitting privileges have become less common.

Even if a doctor still holds admitting privileges, they won’t enable you to bypass other patients in the emergency room.

Hospitalists, along with ER doctors and nurses, are obligated to prioritize patients based on the urgency of their condition. Admitting privileges cannot override this responsibility.

5. The Role of Your Doctor in Hospital Care

Even without admitting privileges, your doctor can still play a crucial role in your hospital care. This holds true for both traditional and concierge doctors.

With your consent, in accordance with HIPAA regulations, you can authorize the hospital to share your medical information with your doctor. You or your family members can also keep your doctor informed.

Concierge medicine offers increased access and availability, allowing your doctor to actively manage your hospital care.

With fewer patients, a concierge medicine physician has the time to communicate with you and the hospital staff regarding your care, rather than simply rushing from appointment to appointment.

Most concierge practices offer 24/7/365 access. Some provide a nurse hotline, while others use third-party services to triage calls, and some guarantee that one of their doctors will be on-call, such as PartnerMD.

With concierge medicine, you can expect to connect with a healthcare professional quickly, whether it’s during the day or in the middle of the night.

Medical professional examining a patient's medical chart in a hospital setting

6. How thebootdoctor.net Can Help With Hospital Care

Doctors at thebootdoctor.net encourage patients to inform them of any hospital visits as soon as possible. Once notified, our doctors can provide valuable support during a stressful situation.

The thebootdoctor.net difference lies in the relationships our doctors build with their patients.

With fewer patients and longer appointments, our doctors have the opportunity to get to know their patients on a deeper level. This allows them to be well-prepared with helpful information before any hospital visit.

Armed with in-depth knowledge of your health history, our physicians can serve as advocates for you during your hospital stay.

This knowledge can improve the efficiency of your hospital care. Instead of the hospital conducting unnecessary tests and prescribing medications that waste time and money, our doctors can provide background information to help hospital doctors and nurses deliver efficient treatment.

Whether you’re undergoing planned surgery or facing a sudden emergency, thebootdoctor.net doctors can assist with hospital care in several ways:

Pre-surgery prep: Your doctor can answer any questions you have before the procedure and prepare you for what to expect at the hospital. We can also recommend questions to ask while at the hospital to address any concerns.
Emergency advice: In case of a sudden emergency, the 24/7/365 access you have to a thebootdoctor.net physician can be crucial. While you should always call 9-1-1 in any sudden emergency, we can provide support and guidance while you’re on your way to the hospital or already there, helping you understand the care you’re receiving.
Hospital advocate: thebootdoctor.net doctors can communicate directly with hospital doctors to coordinate your care and provide relevant background information. This can help streamline the process and ensure you receive the efficient care you need.
Post-Visit care: The thebootdoctor.net difference is even more apparent after a hospital visit. Even if your insurance doesn’t require a visit, seeing your doctor after a hospital stay is good practice to discuss the next steps and ask additional questions.

With thebootdoctor.net’s same-day or next-day appointments, a post-hospital visit can happen quickly. Our longer appointments mean you’ll have time to discuss what happened with your doctor instead of feeling rushed.

7. Understanding Your Search Intent

To fully address your concerns, here are five key search intents related to the question “Can Doctors Admit You To Hospital?”:

Understanding the Basics: What are hospital admitting privileges and how do they work?
Current Practices: How often do primary care physicians use admitting privileges today?
Importance: Is it still crucial for my doctor to have admitting privileges?
Alternatives: What role does my doctor play in my hospital care if they don’t have admitting privileges?
Concierge Medicine: How do concierge medicine practices handle hospital visits for their patients?

8. Hospitalists vs. Primary Care Physicians: A Comparison

Feature	Hospitalist	Primary Care Physician
Primary Focus	Inpatient care within a hospital setting	Outpatient care in a clinic or office
Location	Hospital	Clinic, private practice, or community health center
Scope of Practice	Managing all aspects of a patient’s care during their hospital stay	Providing comprehensive healthcare, including preventive care, chronic disease management
Continuity of Care	Limited to the duration of the hospital stay	Long-term relationship and continuous care
Availability	Available 24/7 within the hospital	Typically available during office hours, with some offering after-hours or weekend care
Knowledge of Patient History	May have limited access to the patient’s full medical history	Extensive knowledge of the patient’s medical history and ongoing health issues
Coordination of Care	Coordinates care with specialists and other hospital staff	Coordinates care with specialists and other healthcare providers outside the hospital
Admitting Privileges	Usually has admitting privileges at the hospital where they work	May or may not have admitting privileges, depending on the hospital
Relationship with Patient	Shorter-term relationship focused on the immediate medical needs during hospitalization	Long-term, trusting relationship built over years

9. Factors Influencing Hospital Admission Decisions

Several critical factors influence hospital admission decisions, ensuring that patients receive the appropriate level of care. Understanding these factors can help individuals better navigate the healthcare system and advocate for their needs.

9.1. Severity of Illness or Injury

The most crucial factor in determining hospital admission is the severity of the patient’s condition. Individuals with life-threatening injuries, acute illnesses, or severe exacerbations of chronic conditions are typically prioritized for admission. Emergency departments use triage systems to assess the urgency of each case, ensuring that the sickest patients receive immediate attention. Conditions that may warrant immediate hospital admission include:

Severe trauma: Injuries resulting from accidents, falls, or assaults that require intensive medical intervention.
Acute respiratory distress: Conditions such as severe asthma attacks, pneumonia, or pulmonary embolism that impair breathing.
Cardiac emergencies: Heart attacks, arrhythmias, or heart failure that necessitate continuous monitoring and treatment.
Neurological emergencies: Strokes, seizures, or traumatic brain injuries that require immediate neurological assessment and intervention.

9.2. Availability of Resources

Hospital admission also depends on the availability of resources, including beds, staff, and specialized equipment. During peak times, such as flu season or mass casualty events, hospitals may face capacity constraints that affect admission decisions. In such situations, healthcare providers must prioritize patients based on their medical needs and the available resources. Factors considered include:

Bed availability: The number of available beds in the hospital, particularly in specialized units such as intensive care units (ICUs).
Staffing levels: The number of nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals available to provide care.
Equipment and technology: Access to necessary medical equipment, such as ventilators, dialysis machines, and imaging technology.

9.3. Need for Inpatient Care

Hospital admission is generally reserved for patients who require a level of care that cannot be provided in an outpatient setting. This includes individuals who need continuous monitoring, intravenous medications, or specialized medical procedures. The decision to admit a patient is based on a comprehensive assessment of their medical needs and the available alternatives. Situations where inpatient care is typically required include:

Post-operative care: Patients recovering from major surgeries who require close monitoring and pain management.
Complex medical management: Individuals with multiple chronic conditions or complicated medical histories that necessitate coordinated care.
Diagnostic uncertainty: Cases where further testing and evaluation are needed to determine the underlying cause of a patient’s symptoms.

9.4. Patient’s Overall Health and Functional Status

The patient’s overall health and functional status also play a role in hospital admission decisions. Frail elderly individuals or those with significant comorbidities may be more likely to be admitted, as they are at higher risk for complications and may require more intensive support. Factors considered include:

Age: Elderly patients are more vulnerable to complications and may require more intensive care.
Comorbidities: The presence of multiple chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease, can increase the complexity of care.
Functional status: The patient’s ability to perform activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating, can influence the need for inpatient support.

9.5. Social and Psychological Factors

Social and psychological factors can also influence hospital admission decisions. Individuals who lack adequate social support or who are experiencing significant psychological distress may be more likely to be admitted, as they may be unable to cope with their medical condition at home. Factors considered include:

Social support: The availability of family, friends, or caregivers to provide assistance and support.
Mental health: The presence of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse, can impact the patient’s ability to manage their medical condition.
Living situation: Unstable housing or homelessness can make it difficult for patients to follow medical advice and may necessitate hospital admission.

9.6. Legal and Ethical Considerations

Legal and ethical considerations also play a role in hospital admission decisions. Healthcare providers must respect patient autonomy and obtain informed consent before admitting an individual to the hospital. In cases where a patient lacks the capacity to make decisions, healthcare providers must follow legal and ethical guidelines to determine the best course of action. Key considerations include:

Informed consent: Ensuring that patients understand the risks and benefits of hospital admission and agree to the proposed treatment plan.
Advance directives: Honoring patients’ wishes regarding medical treatment, as expressed in advance directives such as living wills or durable power of attorney for healthcare.
Legal mandates: Complying with legal mandates, such as mandatory reporting laws for certain medical conditions or situations.

10. The Impact of Healthcare Policy on Hospital Admissions

Healthcare policy significantly shapes hospital admission practices, influencing everything from reimbursement models to quality standards. Understanding these policies can provide valuable insights into the complexities of hospital care and the factors driving admission decisions.

10.1. Affordable Care Act (ACA)

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has had a profound impact on hospital admissions, primarily through its expansion of health insurance coverage. By increasing access to insurance for millions of Americans, the ACA has led to a rise in hospital utilization, particularly among previously uninsured populations. Key provisions of the ACA that have affected hospital admissions include:

Medicaid Expansion: The ACA expanded Medicaid eligibility to include more low-income individuals, leading to increased access to healthcare services and a subsequent rise in hospital admissions among this population.
Insurance Marketplaces: The establishment of health insurance marketplaces has enabled individuals and families to purchase subsidized health insurance plans, resulting in greater coverage and utilization of hospital services.

10.2. Medicare and Medicaid Reimbursement Policies

Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement policies play a crucial role in shaping hospital admission practices. These policies dictate how hospitals are paid for the services they provide, influencing the types of patients they admit and the treatments they offer. Key aspects of Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement policies that affect hospital admissions include:

Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRGs): Medicare uses DRGs to classify hospital cases based on diagnosis, procedure, and other factors. Hospitals are reimbursed a fixed amount for each DRG, incentivizing them to manage costs and improve efficiency.
Value-Based Purchasing: Medicare’s value-based purchasing program rewards hospitals for delivering high-quality care and achieving positive patient outcomes. This incentivizes hospitals to focus on preventive care and reduce readmission rates.
Readmission Penalties: Medicare imposes penalties on hospitals with high readmission rates for certain conditions, such as heart failure, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This encourages hospitals to improve discharge planning and provide better post-discharge care.

10.3. Quality and Safety Standards

Quality and safety standards, such as those established by The Joint Commission and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), influence hospital admission practices by promoting evidence-based care and reducing medical errors. These standards require hospitals to implement policies and procedures to ensure patient safety and improve the quality of care. Key quality and safety standards that affect hospital admissions include:

Accreditation: Hospitals must meet certain standards to achieve accreditation from organizations like The Joint Commission, demonstrating their commitment to quality and patient safety.
Core Measures: CMS has established core measures for various medical conditions, such as heart attack, stroke, and pneumonia, which hospitals must adhere to in order to receive full reimbursement.
National Patient Safety Goals: The Joint Commission publishes National Patient Safety Goals each year, highlighting areas where hospitals need to improve their practices to reduce the risk of medical errors and adverse events.

10.4. Health Information Technology (HIT) Policies

Health information technology (HIT) policies, such as the HITECH Act, have promoted the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and other HIT tools, transforming hospital admission practices by improving communication, coordination, and decision-making. These policies have enabled hospitals to streamline admission processes, reduce paperwork, and enhance patient safety. Key aspects of HIT policies that affect hospital admissions include:

Electronic Health Records (EHRs): EHRs provide a comprehensive electronic record of a patient’s medical history, enabling healthcare providers to access and share information more easily.
Health Information Exchange (HIE): HIE allows healthcare providers to securely exchange patient information electronically, improving coordination of care and reducing duplication of services.
Telehealth: Telehealth technologies enable healthcare providers to deliver remote care to patients, potentially reducing the need for hospital admissions in certain situations.

10.5. Public Health Emergency Preparedness

Public health emergency preparedness policies, such as those related to pandemic response and disaster management, shape hospital admission practices by ensuring that hospitals have the capacity and resources to respond to public health crises. These policies require hospitals to develop emergency preparedness plans and participate in drills and exercises to prepare for various scenarios. Key aspects of public health emergency preparedness that affect hospital admissions include:

Surge Capacity: Hospitals must have the ability to increase their capacity during public health emergencies, such as pandemics or natural disasters, to accommodate a surge in patients.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Hospitals must have adequate supplies of PPE to protect healthcare workers and patients during infectious disease outbreaks.
Emergency Management Plans: Hospitals must have comprehensive emergency management plans in place to guide their response to various types of emergencies.

11. Navigating Hospital Admission: A Patient’s Guide

Navigating the hospital admission process can be overwhelming, but understanding the steps involved and knowing your rights can help you feel more in control. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate hospital admission with confidence.

11.1. Before Admission

Consult with Your Doctor: Discuss your medical condition and treatment options with your doctor. Understand why hospitalization is necessary and what to expect during your stay.
Gather Medical Information: Compile a list of your medications, allergies, medical conditions, and past surgeries. Bring copies of your medical records, if possible.
Prepare Important Documents: Have your insurance card, identification, and any advance directives (such as a living will or durable power of attorney for healthcare) readily available.
Pack Essential Items: Bring comfortable clothing, toiletries, and any personal items that will make your stay more comfortable.

11.2. During Admission

Registration: Upon arrival at the hospital, you will need to register and provide your insurance information and identification.
Medical Assessment: A nurse or doctor will assess your medical condition and ask about your symptoms, medical history, and medications.
Consent Forms: You will be asked to sign consent forms for various medical procedures and treatments. Be sure to read these forms carefully and ask questions if you don’t understand something.
Room Assignment: You will be assigned a room and given an orientation to the hospital facilities and services.

11.3. During Your Hospital Stay

Communicate with Your Healthcare Team: Ask questions, express concerns, and provide feedback to your doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers.
Follow Your Treatment Plan: Adhere to your prescribed medications, therapies, and dietary restrictions.
Participate in Decision-Making: Be actively involved in decisions about your care and treatment.
Keep a Record: Keep a record of your medications, treatments, and any important information provided by your healthcare team.

11.4. Discharge Planning

Discharge Instructions: Before you leave the hospital, you will receive discharge instructions outlining your medications, follow-up appointments, and any necessary lifestyle changes.
Medication Management: Make sure you understand how to take your medications and where to obtain refills.
Follow-Up Care: Schedule any necessary follow-up appointments with your doctor or other healthcare providers.
Home Healthcare: If you require home healthcare services, such as nursing care or physical therapy, make arrangements before you leave the hospital.

11.5. Patient Rights

Right to Information: You have the right to receive information about your medical condition, treatment options, and prognosis.
Right to Privacy: You have the right to privacy and confidentiality regarding your medical information.
Right to Refuse Treatment: You have the right to refuse medical treatment, even if it is recommended by your healthcare team.
Right to a Second Opinion: You have the right to seek a second opinion from another doctor.
Right to Access Your Medical Records: You have the right to access and review your medical records.
Right to voice grievances: You have the right to make a complaint about the services received.

12. Debunking Common Myths About Hospital Admissions

Many misconceptions surround hospital admissions, leading to confusion and anxiety among patients. Let’s debunk some common myths to provide clarity and dispel fears.

12.1. Myth: Only the Very Sick Get Admitted

Reality: While severe illnesses or injuries often warrant hospital admission, various other factors can lead to hospitalization. These include the need for diagnostic testing, specialized treatment, post-operative care, or close monitoring that cannot be provided in an outpatient setting.

12.2. Myth: Admitting Privileges Guarantee Admission

Reality: Having a primary care physician with admitting privileges does not guarantee admission to a specific hospital. Admission decisions are based on medical necessity, the severity of the patient’s condition, and the availability of resources.

12.3. Myth: Hospitals Always Admit Patients Who Request It

Reality: Hospitals do not automatically admit patients simply because they request it. Medical professionals assess each case individually, and admission is based on medical necessity and the appropriateness of inpatient care.

12.4. Myth: All Hospitals Provide the Same Level of Care

Reality: While all accredited hospitals must meet certain quality and safety standards, the level of care can vary depending on factors such as the hospital’s size, resources, specialization, and staffing levels.

12.5. Myth: Once Admitted, You Can’t Leave Until the Doctor Says So

Reality: Patients have the right to refuse medical treatment and leave the hospital, even against medical advice (AMA). However, leaving AMA may have implications for insurance coverage and potential health risks.

12.6. Myth: Hospitals Are Always Overcrowded

Reality: While some hospitals may experience overcrowding at certain times, particularly during peak seasons or public health emergencies, not all hospitals are consistently overcrowded. Many hospitals have strategies in place to manage capacity and ensure timely access to care.

12.7. Myth: You Can Only Be Admitted Through the Emergency Room

Reality: While many patients are admitted through the emergency room, you can also be admitted directly by your doctor for scheduled procedures or treatments. Direct admissions are often arranged for patients who require inpatient care but do not need emergency medical attention.

12.8. Myth: Hospitals Are Dangerous Places to Be

Reality: While hospitals can be associated with certain risks, such as healthcare-associated infections or medical errors, hospitals implement numerous safety protocols and quality improvement initiatives to minimize these risks and ensure patient safety.

13. Future Trends in Hospital Admissions

The landscape of hospital admissions is continually evolving, driven by advancements in technology, changes in healthcare policy, and shifts in patient demographics. Understanding these future trends can help healthcare providers and patients prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

13.1. Telehealth and Remote Monitoring

Telehealth and remote monitoring technologies are poised to transform hospital admission practices by enabling healthcare providers to deliver care remotely and monitor patients’ conditions in real-time. These technologies can reduce the need for hospital admissions in certain situations, improve patient outcomes, and enhance access to care for underserved populations. Key trends include:

Virtual Visits: Telehealth platforms enable healthcare providers to conduct virtual visits with patients, allowing them to assess their condition, provide medical advice, and prescribe medications remotely.
Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM): RPM devices allow healthcare providers to monitor patients’ vital signs, symptoms, and other health indicators remotely, enabling them to detect early signs of deterioration and intervene proactively.
Hospital at Home Programs: Hospital at home programs allow patients to receive hospital-level care in the comfort of their own homes, reducing the need for traditional hospital admissions.

13.2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies are being increasingly used to improve hospital admission practices by predicting patient risk, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing decision-making. These technologies can help healthcare providers identify patients who are at high risk for complications, streamline admission processes, and personalize treatment plans. Key trends include:

Predictive Analytics: AI and ML algorithms can analyze patient data to predict the likelihood of hospital admission, readmission, or adverse events.
Clinical Decision Support: AI-powered clinical decision support tools can provide healthcare providers with real-time recommendations for diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients.
Automated Triage: AI-powered triage systems can assess patients’ symptoms and prioritize them based on the severity of their condition, ensuring that the sickest patients receive immediate attention.

13.3. Personalized Medicine

Personalized medicine, which involves tailoring medical treatment to the individual characteristics of each patient, is transforming hospital admission practices by enabling healthcare providers to deliver more targeted and effective care. By considering factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposures, personalized medicine can help healthcare providers make more informed decisions about hospital admission, treatment, and discharge planning. Key trends include:

Genomic Testing: Genomic testing can identify genetic mutations that may increase a patient’s risk for certain diseases or affect their response to medications.
Biomarkers: Biomarkers can provide valuable information about a patient’s disease status, response to treatment, and prognosis.
Precision Medicine: Precision medicine involves using genomic, biomarker, and other data to tailor medical treatment to the individual characteristics of each patient.

13.4. Value-Based Care

Value-based care, which focuses on delivering high-quality care at a lower cost, is transforming hospital admission practices by incentivizing healthcare providers to focus on preventive care, reduce readmission rates, and improve patient outcomes. Under value-based care models, hospitals are rewarded for achieving certain quality metrics and penalized for failing to meet performance targets. Key trends include:

Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs): ACOs are groups of healthcare providers who work together to coordinate care and improve the quality of services for Medicare patients.
Bundled Payments: Bundled payments involve paying healthcare providers a single fee for all the services related to a particular episode of care, incentivizing them to manage costs and improve efficiency.
Pay-for-Performance: Pay-for-performance programs reward healthcare providers for achieving certain quality metrics and penalize them for failing to meet performance targets.

13.5. Patient-Centered Care

Patient-centered care, which focuses on involving patients in their own care and respecting their preferences and values, is transforming hospital admission practices by empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health and treatment. Under patient-centered care models, healthcare providers work collaboratively with patients to develop personalized care plans and ensure that their needs and preferences are met. Key trends include:

Shared Decision-Making: Shared decision-making involves healthcare providers and patients working together to make informed decisions about medical treatment.
Patient Portals: Patient portals allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their healthcare providers, and manage their appointments online.
Patient Advisory Councils: Patient advisory councils involve patients and family members in the design and implementation of healthcare services.

14. Resources for Patients Facing Hospital Admission

Navigating a hospital admission can be overwhelming, but numerous resources are available to help patients and their families. These resources provide valuable information, support, and guidance to ensure a smooth and informed experience.

14.1. Government Agencies

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS): CMS offers a wealth of information about Medicare and Medicaid benefits, quality of care, and patient rights.
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ): AHRQ provides evidence-based information and resources to help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare.
National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH conducts medical research and provides information about various diseases and conditions.

14.2. Non-Profit Organizations

American Hospital Association (AHA): AHA represents hospitals and healthcare networks and provides information about hospital services, patient safety, and healthcare policy.
The Joint Commission: The Joint Commission accredits hospitals and other healthcare organizations and provides information about quality and safety standards.
National Patient Safety Foundation (NPSF): NPSF is dedicated to improving patient safety and provides resources for patients and healthcare providers.

14.3. Patient Advocacy Groups

Patient Advocate Foundation: PAF provides case management services and financial aid to patients with chronic diseases.
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): NORD provides information and support to individuals with rare diseases and their families.
Cancer Research Institute: CRI funds immunology research and offers support and information to cancer patients and their families.

14.4. Online Resources

WebMD: WebMD provides comprehensive information about medical conditions, treatments, and wellness.
Mayo Clinic: Mayo Clinic offers reliable medical information and expert opinions on a wide range of health topics.
MedlinePlus: MedlinePlus provides authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine.

14.5. Books and Publications

“The Empowered Patient: How to Get the Best Healthcare” by Elizabeth Cohen: This book provides practical advice on navigating the healthcare system and advocating for your health.
“My Hospital Bag: A Guide for Expectant Mothers” by Joyce Eisenberg and Susan Golant: This book offers essential tips and advice for expectant mothers preparing for a hospital stay.
“The Patient’s Playbook: How to Save Your Life and the Lives of Those You Love” by Leslie D. Michelson: This book provides strategies for managing your healthcare and getting the best possible outcomes.

15. FAQs About Hospital Admissions

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about hospital admissions to help you better understand the process.

15.1. Can My Primary Care Doctor Admit Me to the Hospital?

In many cases, yes, your primary care doctor can admit you to the hospital, but it depends on their admitting privileges and the hospital’s policies.

15.2. What Factors Determine Whether I Need to Be Admitted to the Hospital?

The decision to admit you to the hospital depends on factors such as the severity of your condition, the need for inpatient care, and the availability of resources.

15.3. What Are Admitting Privileges, and How Do They Work?

Admitting privileges are the rights granted to a doctor by a hospital to admit patients to that particular hospital.

15.4. Do All Doctors Have Admitting Privileges?

No, not all doctors have admitting privileges. Whether a doctor has admitting privileges depends on their specialty, their relationship with the hospital, and the hospital’s policies.

15.5. What Happens If My Doctor Doesn’t Have Admitting Privileges at My Preferred Hospital?

If your doctor doesn’t have admitting privileges at your preferred hospital, they may be able to coordinate with a hospitalist or another doctor who does have admitting privileges.

15.6. Can I Request to Be Admitted to a Specific Hospital?

You can express your preference for a specific hospital, but the final decision on where you are admitted will depend on your medical needs and the availability of resources.

15.7. What Is a Hospitalist, and What Role Do They Play in My Care?

A hospitalist is a doctor who specializes in caring for patients in the hospital. They manage all aspects of your care during your hospital stay, working with other specialists and healthcare providers as needed.

15.8. What Are My Rights as a Patient During a Hospital Admission?

As a patient, you have the right to receive information about your medical condition, treatment options, and prognosis. You also have the right to privacy, to refuse treatment, and to access your medical records.

15.9. How Can I Prepare for a Hospital Admission?

To prepare for a hospital admission, gather your medical information, prepare important documents, pack essential items, and discuss your concerns with your doctor.

15.10. What Should I Do After Being Discharged From the Hospital?

After being discharged from the hospital, follow your discharge instructions, manage your medications, schedule follow-up appointments, and make arrangements for home healthcare if needed.

We know any trip to the hospital is a stressful time. Hospital doctors and nurses work extremely hard to provide you with the care you need. However, you may have questions or concerns you are uncomfortable bringing up at the hospital, or that the hospital staff may not have time to discuss in detail. That’s where having a true partner in health at your side can make a difference. If you’re interested in learning more about PartnerMD, download our free “Understanding Concierge Medicine” eBook. Contact us at Address: 6565 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States. Phone: +1 (713) 791-1414. thebootdoctor.net can help you make the best decisions for your foot health.