Pediatric hospitalists: Quality care for the underserved?

Despite the rapid growth in pediatric hospitalist services, there is little empiric information about the impact of pediatric hospitalists. This study compared process and outcome variables related to the inpatient care of 18 2 pediatric patients, half of whom were cared for by hospitalists and half by their primary care providers (PCP). Results indicated that, while hospit alists cared for patients of substantially lower socioeconomic status, they delivered care more economically for patients with asthma, with no signifi cant differences in rates of return to the emergency room or rehospitalizat ions. Children in both services demonstrated equivalent levels of returning to their PCP for follow-up visits and were in equally good health 1 month after discharge. Additionally, no negative impact was evident on patient sa tisfaction at discharge; in fact, the hospitalists' patients were more sati sfied with aspects of their care. Hospitalists may, therefore, provide a vi tal service by ensuring quality inpatient care for low-income children.