Hospitalists as utility players

Here's a nice little rant from The Refugee over at Hospitalist With A View.

Here are some dictionary definitions of utility:

Used, serving, or working in several capacities as needed, especially:

1. Prepared to play any of the smaller theatrical roles on short notice: a utility cast member.

2. Capable of playing as a substitute in any of several positions: a utility infielder.

1. Designed for various often heavy-duty practical uses: a utility knife; a utility vehicle.

2. Raised or kept for the production of a farm product rather than for show or as pets: utility livestock.

3. Of the lowest U.S. Government grade: utility beef.