Observation Medicine Physician - Hospital Medicine Team

Job Description

Job Description

Join Our Team as an Observation Medicine Physician

We are looking for a committed Observation Medicine Physician (also referred to as an Observationist ) to enhance our expanding Hospital Medicine team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a board-certified or board-eligible physician in Internal Medicine or Family Medicine who is passionate about delivering high-quality, protocol-driven care to short-stay patients within a specialized Observation Unit.

In this position, you will oversee adult patients who require observation status, typically involving 24 to 48 hours of assessment and treatment. Your role will help prevent unnecessary full inpatient admissions while ensuring safe and efficient patient outcomes. Our Observation Unit operates under a closed-unit model, supported by dedicated nursing and staff, which allows for focused and high-throughput care.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough evaluations, management, and disposition for patients in the Observation Unit.
• Establish and adhere to evidence-based clinical protocols for common observation diagnoses, including chest pain, syncope, heart failure exacerbation, COPD/asthma, and cellulitis.
• Work collaboratively with Emergency Medicine, Hospitalists, specialists, and case management to enhance patient flow and optimize length of stay.
• Perform comprehensive histories and physical examinations, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and coordinate multidisciplinary care.
• Engage in quality improvement initiatives, utilization reviews, and the development of clinical protocols.
• Ensure excellent documentation and maintain clear communication with patients, families, and the healthcare team.
• Optional : Leadership or medical director opportunities may be available for qualified candidates.

Qualifications

• Board Certified or Board Eligible in Internal Medicine or Family Medicine .
• Possession of a current, unrestricted medical license in Maryland (or eligibility to obtain one).
• DEA license and ACLS certification are mandatory.
• Strong clinical expertise in adult inpatient or acute care medicine.
• Experience in hospital medicine or observation medicine is preferred; however, we also welcome strong new graduates and early-career hospitalists.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• A genuine commitment to efficient, patient-centered care and minimizing unnecessary hospitalizations.