Neurohospitalist

Neurohospitalist is a term used to describe a neurologist who specializes in the care of patients while they are in the hospital. This relatively new subspecialty of neurology has emerged as a result of the increasing complexity of patients requiring hospital care and the need for dedicated neurologists to care for these patients.

History

The term "neurohospitalist" was first coined in 2005 by Dr. David Likosky, a neurologist at the EvergreenHealth Medical Center in Kirkland, Washington. The field has grown rapidly since then, with many hospitals now employing neurohospitalists to provide comprehensive neurological care to their inpatients.

Role

Neurohospitalists manage a wide range of neurological conditions, including stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. They also provide care for patients with neurological complications of other medical conditions, such as cancer or heart disease. Neurohospitalists work closely with other healthcare professionals, including nurses, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists, to provide comprehensive care to their patients.

Training

To become a neurohospitalist, a doctor must first complete a residency in neurology. This is followed by a fellowship in a subspecialty of neurology, such as stroke or epilepsy. Some neurohospitalists also complete additional training in hospital medicine.

Benefits

The presence of a neurohospitalist in a hospital can improve the quality of care for patients with neurological conditions. Neurohospitalists are able to provide rapid diagnosis and treatment, which can be particularly important in conditions such as stroke, where timely treatment can significantly improve outcomes. They can also provide continuity of care for patients with chronic neurological conditions, and can coordinate the care of patients with complex medical needs.

Challenges

Despite the benefits, there are also challenges associated with the neurohospitalist model. These include the potential for increased costs, the need for adequate staffing, and the potential for burnout among neurohospitalists due to the high intensity of the work.

See also

• Neurology
• Hospital medicine
• Stroke
• Epilepsy

References

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