What is the title of the physician who oversees patients admitted to the hospital?

A hospitalist is a physician whose primary focus is the care of hospitalized patients. They are specially trained to manage the complexities of inpatient medicine and coordinate various aspects of a patient's hospital stay, including treatment plans, consultations with specialists, and discharge planning. Hospitalists work primarily within a hospital setting, allowing them to spend significant time at the facility and respond quickly to patient needs.

The other titles do not accurately reflect this specific role. For instance, a physician partner could refer to a doctor in a private practice or partnership arrangement but does not specifically denote responsibility for hospitalized patients. A physiatrist specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation, primarily working with patients to recover function after illness or injury, rather than overseeing general hospital admissions. Meanwhile, the term "hospital physician" isn't a recognized specialty or role within medical practice, which makes it less precise than "hospitalist." Thus, the right choice captures the distinct responsibilities and focus of physicians dedicated to inpatient care.