Chapter 17 - Structural issues forneurohospitalists

Summary

As neurohospitalist models emerge to provide timely inpatient neurological care and relieve the stress of acute neurological evaluation on an outpatient practice, many structural and organizational issues need to be considered. Availability of the neurohospitalist attending in an academic environment may enhance teaching, providing a richer learning experience for medical students and housestaff, with improved patient safety, standardization of care, and supervision. Hospital employed model is becoming an increasingly popular choice for private practice neurohospitalists as well as outpatient neurologists. There are few truly dedicated private practice neurohospitalist groups in existence nationally, although more seem to be forming, as evidenced by contributions to the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) neurohospitalist listserv, and participation at special interest sections at the AAN and other societies. Perhaps one of the most important aspects of a neurohospitalist's life is defined by the hospital or call schedule.