Physician - Observationist

Observation Medicine Physician (Observationist)

Meritus Medical Center - Hagerstown, MD

Position Highlights

• Dedicated Observation Unit role with closed-unit model
• Ideal for a Family Medicine physician who enjoys broad-scope, protocol-driven inpatient care
• Manage 24–48 hour observation stays to avoid unnecessary full admissions
• Strong emphasis on efficient, high-quality, patient-centered care
• Board Certified/Eligible in Family Medicine
• Collaborative environment with EM, Hospital Medicine, and specialty support
• Opportunity for unit leadership/medical director role (for experienced candidates)
• Growing academic health system with new medical school and residency programs

Clinical Practice This role focuses on high-quality, protocol-driven care in a dedicated Observation Unit:

Observation Unit Services

• Comprehensive evaluation, management, and disposition for adult observation patients
• Follow evidence-based protocols for common conditions (chest pain, syncope, heart failure exacerbation, COPD/asthma, cellulitis, dehydration, etc.)
• Perform histories and physicals, order and interpret diagnostics, and coordinate care
• Work closely with Emergency Medicine, specialists, and case management for safe, timely discharges

Patient Population Adult patients requiring short-term observation (typically <48 hours), including a broad spectrum of conditions commonly seen in Family Medicine:

• Acute exacerbations of chronic diseases (CHF, COPD, diabetes)
• Chest pain and syncope evaluation
• Infectious processes (cellulitis, UTI, pneumonia)
• Minor abdominal pain, headache, and other undifferentiated complaints
• Post-procedure or transitional care needs

Typical Clinical Volume

• High-throughput observation unit with focused patient census
• Efficient workflow emphasizing timely evaluation and disposition
• Balanced daily workload with strong support staff

Academic & Faculty Role

• Opportunities to teach medical students and residents with the upcoming Meritus School of Osteopathic Medicine
• Participation in quality improvement, protocol development, and scholarly activity

Schedule & Call

• Full-time hospital-based schedule with dedicated Observation Unit shifts
• Predictable hours with emphasis on daytime coverage
• Shared coverage within the Hospital Medicine / Observation team

Strong Clinical Support

• Dedicated Observation Unit nursing and support staff
• Close collaboration with Emergency Department, Hospitalists, and specialists
• Multidisciplinary team focused on patient flow and reducing unnecessary hospitalizations

About Meritus Health Meritus Health is an independent, nationally recognized regional health system committed to exceptional patient care, medical education, and community wellness. The organization is expanding academic programs with the new Meritus School of Osteopathic Medicine and additional residency programs.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance (effective 1st of the month after 30 days)
• Company-paid Life, Short-Term, and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off (accrues from day 1)
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with employer match
• CME Allowance
• Education Assistance & Tuition Reimbursement
• Malpractice Insurance

Why Hagerstown? Located in Washington County—one of Maryland’s fastest-growing regions—Hagerstown offers:

• Easy access to Washington, DC and Baltimore
• Outdoor recreation along the Appalachian Trail and nearby national and state parks
• Rich Civil War history and vibrant arts community including the Maryland Theatre and Symphony Orchestra
• Diverse, thriving community with excellent quality of life

Meritus Health is committed to a collaborative, caring culture where team members are always “Happy to Help.”