Over the last 15 years, OBHG has grown into the leading provider of obstetric hospitalist programs in the U.S. As the health care landscape continues to evolve, an increasing number of OB/GYN physicians are deciding to become hospitalists versus working in independent or community practices.
Here are 15 reasons we think hospitalist medicine is the future of our industry:
Safer care for moms
The presence of a 24-7 on-site OB/GYN hospitalist ensures that all pregnant women who present to the hospital will receive immediate care by an experienced physician, regardless of circumstance.
Career stability
Because OBHG focuses on obstetrics only, we have been able to provide consistent work, compensation and benefits for our physicians, and even add new hospital partners and programs, during the most uncertain times.
Role flexibility
OB/GYN hospitalists often have a variety of career options to choose from depending on their career stage. OBHG currently offers part-time and full-time hospitalist roles, regional and national travel positions, as well as the opportunity to lead a clinical team or grow leadership skills.
Greater access to care
Obstetric emergency departments and hospitalist programs provide excellent, safe care for the moms who might otherwise fall through the cracks. Many physicians who enter this sub-specialty find caring for unassigned patients is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the work.
Adaptable schedule
OB/GYN hospitalists are able to create a schedule that works for them. There is no call duty or constant interruptions during personal and family time.
Fewer C-sections
OB/GYN hospitalists can help reduce the number of medically unnecessary C-sections, by working closely with hospital physicians, midwives and nurses.
Location flexibility
Some hospitalist employers are able to offer a choice of locations. OBHG docs can opt to switch to a travel position or permanently relocate to a different state or area if there is a partner hospital nearby. So far our national footprint includes more than 185 programs across 34 states!
Reduced burnout
Between patient appointments, deliveries, call and administrative responsibilities, it’s no wonder burnout is a leading cause of OB/GYN fatigue and stress. Switching to hospitalist work can eliminate some of the heaviest burdens and allow physicians to focus on patient care. And 24-7 programs lighten the load for local private-practice physicians as well.
Leadership training
Hospitalist careers offer numerous opportunities to take on leadership roles. Many OBHG hospitalists become site directors or medical directors of operations, and often serve on hospital committees, lead quality initiatives, or participate in non-profit boards or professional associations. Some of our programs also provide the opportunity to train students and residents.
Great option for new graduates
Physicians can become OB/GYN hospitalists right out of residency, before they have taken their boards. Newly minted docs are able to jump right into a career path they design themselves – whatever it may look like.
Network of clinical support
OBHG’s vast network of skilled OB/GYNs are able to communicate with each other nationwide through their own private intranet site. Whether they are seeking peer-to-peer guidance or fellow physicians to act as a sounding board, they’ve got a built-in support group.
Better work/life balance
Do you ever feel like you’re being pulled in a million directions at once? One of the salient reasons physicians choose hospitalist medicine, is freedom from call duty, and more time to focus on their own health, family life and personal passions.
Increased peace of mind
OB/GYN hospitalists enjoy the luxury of focusing solely on patient care. They don’t have the extra burden of growing a practice, managing an office and employees, or dealing with liability insurance and payors.
Opportunities to volunteer
Because hospitalists don’t have to worry about call duty, many opt to spend some of their time volunteering with local non-profit organizations or clinics, or participating in mission trips. OBHG offers a medical missions program for clinicians who are interested.
Shaping the future of our specialty
Obstetric hospitalist medicine is a younger sub-specialty, but in the past 15 years it has had a major impact on our industry. It has also become a natural career choice for physicians looking to improve processes, reduce maternal mortality rates, and drive positive change for women’s health.