How many babies is too many?: Census Data from a Newborn Rounder Service

Background: Pediatric hospitalists are increasingly responsible for routine newborn care in the newborn nursery. Newborn encounters differ from pediatric encounters in their perceived level of acuity versus amount of time spent with a family. A significant amount of time is needed for counseling, documentation, and communication with outpatient providers. Ideal staffing models are not yet known for this type of work. Objective: To determine the average number of newborn patient encounters seen by a newborn pediatric hospitalist, and determine a volume saturation point for patient care. Design/Methods: Newborn billing data from …