NEWTON-Newton Memorial Hospital announced the launching of The Hospitalist Program, a project designed coordinate emergency care at the hospital with the patient's physician. The Hospitalist Program, which is active 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is staffed by five physicians specializing in pediatrics and internal medicine. Hospitalists and provide immediate care without time lost waiting for the patient's physician. The program is voluntary. Care is enhanced because there is continuity and more coordination of the patient's care. This is particularly important for children who are more apt to require immediate attention from a pediatrician. "We're very pleased to launch this new program," said Dennis Collette, president and CEO of Newton Memorial Hospital. "Hospitalists have proven to boost efficiency, control costs and even shorten length of stay at hospitals across the country. It's win-win for everyone, staff and patients." The Hospitalist Program is staffed by Doctors Mia Piggee, Medical Director of the Program, Kyle Chung, Dominic Diney-Aimissah, Lynette Brown, and Jeffrey Merkle. All are members of the hospital's medical staff. People interested in the Hospitalist Program should talk to their doctor or call 973-579-8419.