An inpatient specialist or hospitalist is a medical doctor who cares for patients admitted to the hospital. They are typically trained in internal medicine but may also have backgrounds in family medicine or other specialties.

A hospitalist’s role is to manage patients’ medical care during their hospital stay, including coordinating with other specialists and healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care. They may also be responsible for admitting patients to the hospital, providing medical consultations, and overseeing the patient’s discharge planning.

Hospitalists typically work in hospitals or medical centers. They are essential to the healthcare team and help ensure patients receive high-quality care during their hospital stay.