A Multicenter Trial of Academic Hospitalists

In 2001, a study titled, "A Multi-Center Trial of Academic Hospitalists" began at the University of Chicago Hospital along with five additional academic institutions. The study is currently and successfully collecting data solely at the University of Chicago Medical Center.

The comprehensive aim of this proposed research is to measure and analyze the effects of hospitalists on patient outcomes, costs, and medical education on the general medicine services at the University of Chicago Medical Center (UC). The comprehensive aim of this research will be pursued through five specific aims:

Specific Aim #1- To assess whether hospitalists affect the cost and quality of inpatient care. This will be accomplished by analyzing the outcomes of 50,000 patients assigned to hospitalists or non-hospitalists using a quasi-randomized design based on day of the week of admission. Outcomes will include in-hospital and post-discharge mortality, readmission, emergency room use, and patient satisfaction.

Specific Aim #2- To assess the mechanisms by which hospitalists may effect the cost and quality of care. Understanding these mechanisms is essential if hospitalist programs are to be designed in ways that permit them to achieve their desired benefits. We will develop measures to assess the whether these possible mechanisms by which hospitalists may have their effects are related to costs and outcomes.

Specific Aim #3- To assess the effects of hospitalists on housestaff and student education and satisfaction. This will be accomplished by surveys administered to medical students and housestaff.