Contact with Primary Care Providers

Children with chronic medical conditions are hospitalized at higher rates than their peers, a pattern that often continues or intensifies after they reach adulthood. Young adults with chronic childhood conditions may have multiple subspecialists involved, and a strong primary care provider can help anchor their complex care. While excellent communication is important for all inpatients, building on the trust and knowledge of outpatient continuity providers has a particularly outsized impact on this vulnerable population. This section reviews key items that inpatient providers should keep in mind regarding communication with the PCP, including correct identification of continuity provider, clearly establishing responsibilities between inpatient physician and PCP, appropriate timing and frequency of communication, and recommended content both during the inpatient stay and surrounding discharge.