Inpatient Care & Laboratory Tests

Inpatient Care

When adult and pediatric patients of Valley Medical Associates providers are admitted for inpatient care to Baystate Medical Center or Mercy Medical Center we use a “team treatment” program of care. By working closely with each hospital we have established ongoing working relationships with each hospital’s staff physicians. These hospital-based colleagues re employed by the respective hospitals and specialize in the care of inpatients. We are in frequent communication with our hospital counterparts to ensure that our patients’ needs are carefully addressed and that they received excellent care both in and out of the hospital.

This “team treatment” partnership has produced highly satisfactory results, with our hospitalized patients reporting excellent experiences regarding the care which they have received. We do realize that some patients may be disappointed that they will not be seeing their primary care physician during their hospital stay. While we understand this concern, our experience has demonstrated that the present system does improve the quality of care overall and increases our availability to see patients within the office.

Phone Treatment

While some problems such as urinary tract infections, vaginal yeast infections, or eye infections can be safely treated over the telephone, most medical problems do require an office visit for appropriate evaluation. Our providers do not prescribe antibiotics over the telephone for presumed sinus infections, bronchitis, sore throats or ear infections.

Occasionally our telephone system is overwhelmed with calls. We do try to answer all calls in the order received and as quickly as possible. We apologize for any extended delays and, again, suggest that non-urgent messages be sent via the web portal once you are a registered user.

Laboratory Tests

Many patients require laboratory tests as part of their care. When lab test results are completed you will be advised via the web portal when the results are normal, generally within 2 weeks. In the event that they are abnormal, your provider will contact you regarding any additional workup or referral that may be required. If you have not been advised of the results at the end of two weeks, feel free to contact us via the web portal or by phone if necessary.

Office Behavior

You have every right to expect polite, courteous behavior from all members of the Valley Medical Associates staff. Naturally, the same courteous behavior is expected of our patients. Shouting, swearing, rude, violent or threatening behavior will not be tolerated in our office at any time. Also, parents are responsible for the behavior of their children in the office. If your children’s behavior is unacceptable, we reserve the right to ask you to leave.