Best of the Region 2018: Health Care in NWI
From the The Times' Best of the Region 2018 series
The best health care providers in Northwest Indiana as voted on by Times readers.
Best Cardiology Care
Community Cardiology services offer the latest technologies and highly skilled professionals. A few members of the comprehensive team include (from left): Scott Sus, RT; Mike Jusko, RN; Kathy Helms, RN; Jacqui Koultourides, RN; Bill Perry, RN; Dianne West, RT; and Mary Miller.
Community Hospital Cardiology Center
801 MacArthur Blvd.
Munster
219-836-1600
Community Hospital's Cardiology Center is one of the largest cardiovascular programs in Northwest Indiana and uses innovative technologies previously found only at leading academic medical centers.
Cardiovascular specialists at Community are uniquely skilled using high-tech, less invasive procedures now available for complex heart and vascular care. These procedures include transcatheter aortic valve replacement or TAVR, WATCHMAN™ for atrial fibrillation and Micra, a tiny, leadless pacemaker.
“Our reputation for quality care has attracted some of the most talented heart specialists and health professionals in the Midwest,” administrator Dale O’Donnell said.
Community Hospital has also been named among America’s Best Hospitals for Heart Care by the Women’s Choice Award.
The cardiology department is recognized for its quality care from diagnostic testing and cardiac and peripheral interventions to open heart and valve surgeries, cardiac rehabilitation, heart failure management and disease prevention.
“Our physicians and staff strive to do their very best for patients on a daily basis. This award is a reflection of their dedication to excellence,” O’Donnell said.
SECOND PLACE
Franciscan Health
2150 Gettler St. Suite 400
Dyer
219-865-0893
THIRD PLACE
Cardiovascular Consultants
10010 Donald S. Powers Drive
Munster
219-934-4200
Best Chiroproactor
John Kostidis of Kostidis Chiropratic Clinic in Valparaiso
Kostidis Chiropractic Clinic
4004 N. Campbell St.
Valparaiso
219-465-1140
Kostidis Chiropractic Clinic was started in 1977 by John and Litsa Kostidis. When they retired, their son, Dr. Nick Kostidis took over the practice. Today, three doctors offer a variety of services, including treating herniated discs, massage and weight loss.
Kostidis was one of first groups to bring spinal therapy to the area and use the same K Laser therapy as the New York Yankees and other professional sports teams use. “My dad learned about this when he went to New York City’s Ground Zero after 9/11,” said Nick. “We are the only practice from Chicago to Indianapolis that offers this treatment.”
“We’ve been between first, second and third for the past nine years,” he said. “To be voted a Best of the Region is great. Besides the power of word of mouth, this is the title that people recognize; no other advertising has this impact.”
Though the office is in Porter County, Nick said its reputation brings in patients from Lake County. “We treat people from birth to 100 years old,” he noted. “Our patients are like family to us, and it’s because of them that we’ve been so successful.”
Dr. Nancy Trimboli of Trimboli Chiropractic in Cedar Lake.
Trimboli Chiropractic
12732 Wicker Ave.
Cedar Lake
219-374-4144
“The legacy of Trimboli Chiropractic has changed the face of health care by making chiropractic care the norm rather than the anomaly,” Dr. Nancy Trimboli of the sixth straight Best of the Region win for her practice.
For 25 years, Trimboli Chiropractic has treated more than 20,000 patients with chiropractic adjustments to help restore the ability to take part in a wide range of activities.
Though patients expect to enjoy many years of life without slowing down or being distracted by pain or problems, Trimboli knows that isn’t always the case. “‘Quick-fix’ medications don’t work, and you are frustrated that time seems to have caught up,” she said. “We don’t want you to be distracted from living the joys that you had planned to be living and not able to show love to your family because of your pain.”
Trimboli suggests that if an individual has question about current care, chiropractic care may be the answer. “We work to put the power and knowledge of your health back into your hands,” she said. “We are also eternally grateful for your vote!”
THIRD PLACE
Kauffman Chiropractic
100 W. 84th Drive
Merrillville
219-736-7363
7620-7636 E. 109th Ave.
Crown Point
219-662-9855
Best Dentist
Drs. Eric Compton and Mark Broomhead
Compton and Broomhead Dental Center/Kessler Family Dental and Associates
901 Fran Lin Pkwy.
Munster
219-552-8561
9161 E. 109th Ave.
Crown Point
219-661-5085
Compton Dental Center was founded in 1957 by Dr. George Compton and then merged with Broomhead Dental. In January, the practice became known as Compton and Broomhead Dental Center/Kessler Family Dental and Associates and now serves more of Northwest Indiana.
According to Marketing Manager Renda Riley, the collaboration has allowed the dentists to offer more services such as sedation dentistry and implants and to be available more hours. The practice is a part of Mini Dental Implant Centers of America, has a periodontist (who specializes in gum disease) on staff and provides general dentistry for all ages.
“The doctors at Compton and Broomhead Dental Center in Munster along with our new office at Kessler Family Dental and Associates in Winfield are dedicated to a culture of customer service and complete high levels of dental procedures,” said the dental staff, led by Dr. Eric Compton. “ We make it a point to constantly remember we are here to serve our patients to the best of our abilities. Our loyal, trusted and dedicated team will continue to make your dental experience No. 1 in the Region for years and years to come.”
SECOND PLACE
Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics
1549 S. Court St. Suite A
Crown Point
219-662-2264
200 W. 84th Drive
Merrillville
219-769-7447
1000 Caroline Ave.
Schererville
219-322-8552
911 Wall St.
Valparaiso
219-462-3537
THIRD PLACE
Family Dental Care
334 W. U.S. Hwy. 30 Suite G
Valparaiso
219-464-9887
Best Dermatologist
Dr. Karen Jordan
Dermatology Associates of Northwest Indiana
9120 Columbia Ave.
Munster
219-513-9415
311 E. 89th Ave.
Merrillville
219-769-7060
3900 St. Mary Dr.
Valparaiso
219-769-7060
Dr. Karen Jordan opened Dermatology Associates of Northwest Indiana in 2013 and the company celebrated its fifth year in April. With a fourth location opening this month in Whiting, “it’s exciting to make our services convenient for our patients with different times and locations,” says Anne Jordan, assistant to the docton. She says that what sets Jordan’s dermatology business apart from others in the Region is that it’s locally owned.
“Dr. Jordan is passionate about providing the best care for the local community,” she says.
Dermatology Associates of Northwest Indiana treats all types of skin conditions for the family, including medical, pediatric, cosmetic and surgical dermatology. Jordan is specially trained in Mohs surgery, a microscopic technique used to treat skin cancer. With skin cancers often occurring on the face, “It can be emotional for people concerned about scarring on the face. But Dr. Jordan does surgery to make it less noticeable,” says Anne Jordan.
The team has more than 10 years of experience treating skin cancer, and all of its providers are board certified.
SECOND PLACE
Dermatology Center of Northwest Indiana
70 W. 94th Place
Crown Point
219-785-8188
THIRD PLACE
Dermio Dermatology
9200 Calumet Ave. Suite 203
Munster
6000 W. 101st St.
Dyer
519 N. Halleck St.
DeMotte
219-227-5034
Best Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist
CarePointe Sinus Center, from left, Thomas Tarin, Dennis Han, Michele Massow, Ryan Cmejrek, and Sreekant Cherukuri
CarePointe Ear, Nose, Throat & Sinus Centers
Drs. Dennis Han, Ryan Cmejrek, Thomas Tarin and Sreekant Cherukuri, and Michele Massow NP
99 E. 86th Ave. Suite A
Merrillville
219-738-2617
801 MacArthur Blvd. Suite 302
Munster
219-836-2201
1400 S. Lake Park Ave. Suite 500
Hobart
219-738-2617
CarePointe Ear, Nose, Throat & Sinus Centers again took top spot as Best of the Region, Best Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist. CarePointe is the largest group of board-certified otolaryngologists in Northwest Indiana.
“There is no typical patient who comes to see us,” explained Dr. Ryan Cmejrek. “We offer a full range of ENT services to patients of all ages. We treat sinus and allergy, pediatric ENT problems such as chronic ear infections and enlarged tonsils, head and neck cancer, thyroid and salivary gland tumors, hearing loss, and many other ENT ailments.”
“We use the most advanced and up-to-date techniques and treatments to accurately diagnose and promptly treat our patients,” Cmejrek continued. “We partner with our patients in their care so that they are empowered to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. We also offer many treatments in office or an outpatient surgery setting that other local doctors would refer to university centers in Chicago or Indianapolis. Our goal is to get patients back to full health and maximize quality of life in a way that fits with today's active lifestyles.”
With locations in Munster, Merrillville, and Hobert, patients can select the one most convenient or with quicker access. CarePointe understands its patients’ needs.
Besides this, Cmejrek stressed that ethics and integrity are critical at CarePointe. “We will continue working diligently to live up this honor and to provide the people of Northwest Indiana with the highest possible level of compassionate patient care,” Cmejrek said. “Our goal is to get patients back to full health and maximize quality of life in a way that fits with today’s active lifestyles.”
SECOND PLACE
Leonard V. Covello M.D. — Covello Sinus Center
900 Ridge Rd. Suite E
Munster
219-836-8100
THIRD PLACE
Bethany Cataldi D.O. — Center for Otolaryngology & Facial Plastic Surgery LLC
2203 45th St.
Highland
219-836-4820
Best Hearing Center
Members of the audiology services team at Community Hospital include supervisor, Tricia O’Halloran (left) and senior audiologist, Dyanna Prairie.
Community Hospital Audiology Services
9200 Calumet Ave. Suite N502
Munster
219-853-4633
9660 Wicker Ave.
St. John
219-226-2326
“We have amazing staff that is truly dedicated to give patients the very best in hearing health care available today,” says Tricia O’Halloran, licensed audiologist and supervisor of Community Hospital Audiology Services. "They are a dynamic group with great education and training that allows many of them to specialize in different areas from perinatal and pediatrics to adult populations.”
Audiology Services provides comprehensive diagnostic testing for hearing, balance and tinnitus assessment, including middle-ear testing, and other specialized evaluations. It also has a leading pediatric audiology department, performing screenings of newborns in nurseries and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Community Hospital.
After thorough evaluation, the team fits patients with the most advanced digital hearing aid technology available. Individual counseling helps those with hearing loss function more effectively in social, educational and occupational environments. Audiology Services accepts most insurance carriers and offers self-pay discounts for patients without hearing aid benefits.
“We have the dedication and commitment to provide excellent care to Northwest Indiana and south suburbs of Chicago. My staff loves what they do and it shows,” says O’Halloran.
SECOND PLACE
Dr. Geissler's Hearing Center
10110 Donald S. Powers Drive Suite 202A
Munster
219-836-0022
THIRD PLACE
Clear Ear
827 W. 45th St.
Griffith
219-934-9747
Best Hospital
Community Hospital
901 MacArthur Blvd.
Munster
219-836-1600
Community Hospital has consistently achieved national distinction for high-quality care. It has been named among America’s Best Hospitals in several categories, including patient safety, from Women’s Choice and has achieved national accreditations in cancer, heart, bariatric, spine, women’s care and more.
Community Hospital provides consistently superior performance in clinical outcomes and patient experience for treatment of even common conditions. It is also a leader in creating the health care landscape in Northwest Indiana, routinely bringing ground-breaking procedures and technologies previously available at only academic medical centers to the Region, says Chief Executive Lou Molina.
“Our doctors, nurses and support staff consistently incorporate their best efforts into everything we do,” says Molina. “We remain focused on the things that matter most to our patients, including clinical excellence in a total caring environment.”
SECOND PLACE
Franciscan Health Crown Point
1201 Main St.
Crown Point
219-738-2100
THIRD PLACE
St. Mary Medical Center
1500 S. Lake Park Ave.
Hobart
219-942-0551
Best Medical Transportation/Ambulance Service
Superior Ambulance Service
Multiple locations
630-832-2000
Superior Ambulance Service is committed to providing high-quality emergency medical service.
The company, formed in 1959 in the Chicagoland area, has been in Northwest Indiana for about 20 years, said Mary Franco, vice president at Superior Ambulance.
“We're here to stay,” Franco said.
She said “a lot of companies have come and gone,” but Superior has displayed longevity.
Locally, Superior has contracts with East Chicago, Munster, Highland, Dyer, Griffith, Merrillville, Burns Harbor and Chesterton to handle emergency medical calls there.
The company also works with hospitals and other entities to provide medical transportation.
Besides ground service, Superior also provides air transport.
Franco said Superior is dedicated to providing excellent patient care.
“I'm glad we're fulfilling the needs and expectations of our customers,” Franco said.
SECOND PLACE
InHealth
Multiple locations
219-838-4444
THIRD PLACE
Elite Ambulance
Multiple locations
219-322-6061
Best Nursing Care/Acute Rehab Community
A rehab program at Hartsfield Village
Hartsfield Village
10000 Columbia Ave.
Munster
219-934-0750
An experienced team of professionals at Hartsfield Village’s Rehabilitation Center helps patients recover from surgery, injury or serious illness. Though transitions can be challenging, the Rehabilitation Center strives to facilitate the process smoothly in an encouraging environment where patients feel well-informed and welcome, says Susan Seydel, health facility administrator.
Hartsfield Village’s comprehensive rehabilitation services include physical, occupational and speech therapies, respiratory therapy, IV therapy, nutrition, and wound and pain management.
“The team at Hartsfield Village prides itself on providing compassionate care as well as state-of-the-art therapy in a comfortable and spa-like environment. We strive to exceed the expectations of each and every one of our patients and residents, and it is a true honor to serve our community,” says Seydel.
Amenities include private and semi-private rooms, each with flat screen TVs, 24-hour nursing care, individualized care planning, medication management and meals to meet dietary and therapeutic needs from a registered dietitian. There are also daily therapeutic recreational activities, salon services, massage therapy and much more.
Hartsfield Village’s post-acute rehabilitation program offers advanced technology and foremost rehabilitation techniques to help patients achieve maximum function and independence through the most efficient and effective care, says Seydel.
SECOND PLACE
Symphony Post Acute Network
775 Village Point
Chesterton
219-304-6700
1555 S. Main St.
Crown Point
219-323-8700
1532 Calumet Ave.
Dyer
219-515-4700
THIRD PLACE
Avalon Springs
2400 Silhavy Rd.
Valparaiso
219-462-1778
Best Orthopedic
Orthopaedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana
Multiple locations
The mission of Orthopaedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana is to provide world-class care with a personalized touch. The physicians have received their training at the most prestigious programs in the country while maintaining an excellent bedside manner, according to the business.
Each physician has specialty so the practice covers each bone and joint in the body. Armed with this expertise and a team-based approach, OSNI physicians take on even the most difficult conditions. With on-site physical and occupational therapy, open MRI, and state-of-the art technology and equipment, OSNI offers a comprehensive plan of care.
“Our culture at OSNI is to treat each and every patient the same way we treat our family,” says Dr. Sunil Dedhia. That attitude combined with specialized care leads to successful outcomes. “Many physicians, nurses and hospital administrators in the region bring their friends and family for treatment at OSNI,” says Dr. Nitin Khanna.
“It is both an honor and a privilege to have earned the trust of our patients and their families,” says Dr. Dwight Tyndall.
OSNI has nine physicians and 13 providers at seven locations. Physicians are on staff at every hospital system in the region to ensure patients can choose a preferred location.
SECOND PLACE
Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute
Multiple locations
THIRD PLACE
Bone and Joint Specialists
Multiple locations
Best Pain Management
Doctors Michael Knesek and Kenneth Ham with the Mako Robotic Arm technology for precision surgery at Bone and Joint Specialists.
Bone and Joint Specialists
Multiple locations
The treatment team at Bone and Joint Specialists understands that pain after surgery is a concern for patients and knows that when well managed it helps patients in the healing process, says Cori Johnson, practice manager.
The practice uses a conservative approach to pain management that begins even before a surgery decision, including an anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy recommendations. “Those pre-surgery treatments help determine whether surgery is the best option for the patient,” says Johnson. If surgery is indicated, pre- and post-surgery physical therapy help with range of motion, which promotes healing. “Pre-operative therapy is so important in the recovery process to decrease pain before and after surgery,” says Johnson.
Another effective approach is the minimally invasive ortho-biometrics treatment, designed to stop pain at its source.
Bone and Joint Specialists surgeons are certified in the use of the Mako Robotic-Arm assisted technology, a tool providing perfectly targeted surgery. Now the top technology in certain partial and total joint replacements, Mako allows surgeons to make the most precise cuts, resulting in less post-surgery pain, less need for pain medication, and smoother joint movement.
“We are always mindful of the best possible outcome for our patients,” says Johnson.
SECOND PLACE
Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists
8840 Calumet Ave. Suite 103
Munster
1100 S. Calumet Rd. Suite 1
Chesterton
219-836-7246
THIRD PLACE
Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute
Multiple locations
Best Pediatric Care
Franciscan Physician Network Pediatric Health Center
1505 S. Court St. Suite 101
Crown Point
219-662-0700
The pediatricians at Franciscan Physician Network Pediatric Health Center, who are a part of the Franciscan Physician Network, are trained to help children from birth through adolescence and up to 18 years old. They specialize in the physical, mental and social well-being of children.
The pediatric doctors also offer guidance to prevent illness and injury, monitor development, assist parents in the establishment of healthy lifestyle habits, provide timely care of acute illness, and help manage complex childhood conditions, including behavioral and developmental.
The facility's commitment to using clinical performance measures, best-practice implementation, and patient outreach efforts, while demonstrating a passion for quality, keep its patients coming back.
SECOND PLACE
Kids First Pediatrics on 30
1160 Joliet St.
Dyer
219-322-8534
THIRD PLACE
Community Hospital
901 MacArthur Blvd.
Munster
219-836-1600
Best Pharmacy
Walgreens
Multiple locations
New services meet time-honored traditions at pharmacy giant Walgreens. In 1901 Charles Walgreen Sr. bought the drugstore where he had been working as a pharmacist. That led to him starting a chain of Walgreens pharmacies, and through the years with Charles Walgreen II and III have kept the growth going.
The company says Walgreen Sr. manufactured his own line of drug products, wanting to ensure high quality at low prices.
Now Walgreens offers health apps and devices to track activity, with Balance Rewards for healthy choices and savings on purchases. Walgreens gives customers efficiency in filling prescriptions, offering health services including flu shots, and the presence of nurse practitioners. Walgreens also commits to advances in energy savings and contributing to charitable causes, the company says.
SECOND PLACE
CVS
Multiple locations
THIRD PLACE
Meijer
Mulitple locations
Best Physical Therapy
ATI Physical Therapy
ATI Physical Therapy
Multiple locations
People entering physical therapy often are suffering from pain. ATI Physical Therapy tries to make sure going to therapy isn't an even bigger pain, according to ATI Senior Regional Director Derek Pequette.
That could be why ATI was voted the best place for physical therapy in the Region by Times' readers. ATI has 17 locations in Northwest Indiana from Hammond and Lowell to Michigan City and many in between. In 2017 it opened a clinic on U.S. Hwy. 41 in St. John.
"At ATI we strive to make everyone's visit the highlight of their day," Pequette said. "We know people are coming to us in pain, taking time out of their day and away from their jobs and families to get better. This isn't always the easiest thing to do.
"We make sure the whole team, our clinicians, front office, drivers and rehab techs, put their best foot forward every day to make it happen for our patients. We pride ourselves in not only having the best clinicians out there but having the best customer service as well. We want to see things from the eyes of our patients, so we understand what they are going through and can help them achieve the best outcomes possible."
SECOND PLACE
Lake Shore Bone & Joint Institute
Multiple locations
THIRD PLACE
Bone and Joint Specialists
9001 Broadway
Merrillville
219-795-3360
Best Podiatrist
Dr. James Hong
Bone and Joint Specialists PC of Northwest Indiana
Dr. James Hong
9001 Broadway
Merrillville
219-795-3360
801 MacArthur Blvd., Suite 302
Munster
219-795-3360
1354 Lake Park Ave.
Hobart
219-795-3360
Bone and Joint Specialists PC of Northwest Indiana use an individualized approach for each patient. Dr. James Hong, board certified.in foot and reconstructive rearfoot/ankle surgery, says it’s important to take time to tailor a treatment to each patient’s personal circumstances and goals. “I am conservative; I want to explore with the patient all options before surgical intervention,” says Hong. Talking with patients as equals and taking time with them means, “I don’t just walk in one minute and go right to the procedure.”
When foot and ankle bones are out of alignment, so is the rest of the body, says Hong. Problems can range from sprained ankles and heel pain to complex issues involving the many nerves in the foot.
As an experienced podiatrist Hong specializes in all aspects of treating foot and ankle conditions, including traumatic ankle and foot fractures, reconstructive surgery, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. He also actively trains and supervises residents at the Franciscan St. Margaret/Midwestern University Residency program.
“At Bone and Joint Specialists we’re very family-oriented. I believe it’s important to have a good relationship with staff and with patients,” Hong says. “I grew up in the area and am a Loyola University graduate, so the local communities are very important to me.”
A fourth office opened in Valparaiso in mid-April.
SECOND PLACE
Friendly Foot Care
Dr. Michael Nirenberg
50 W. 94th Place
Crown Point
219-663-2273
THIRD PLACE
Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute
Multiple locations
Best Retirement Living/Assisted Living Community
A fitness center is one of the many amenities at Hartsfield Village.
Hartsfield Village
10000 Columbia Ave.
Munster
219-934-0750
At Hartsfield Village, a continuing care retirement community in Munster, families can count on excellence in care for their loved ones in every phase of their lives, says Leslie Riley, senior living administrator. Transitions through those phases are seamless, with Hartsfield Village providing Independent and Assisted Living apartments, a Memory Support Unit and Rehabilitation Center.
Residents receive appropriate services and amenities, and they can conveniently transition to other levels of care as their needs change,. Hartsfield Village, part of Community Healthcare System, features quality health services equal to those at Community Hospital in Munster, St. Catherine Hospital in East Chicago, and St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart.
“Our compassionate staff takes pride in the care and hospitality we deliver every day to our residents,” says Riley.
On a 38-acre campus, Hartsfield Village offers residents opportunities for social connections and maintenance-free living in picturesque surroundings that include beautiful courtyards, a walking path, pond, gardens and a putting green. Inside, amenities include a fitness room, SpaPointe salon services, underground parking, 24/7 security on premises, Artisan Café with fresh healthy selections, game rooms and a gourmet coffee bar. Residents also have convenient free transportation to stores and medical appointments.
“We understand that it takes more than a beautiful campus to deliver the very best in care,” says Riley. “Working together for the health and well being of our residents, our team puts the ‘heart’ in Hartsfield Village.”
SECOND PLACE
Symphony Post Acute Network
775 Village Point
Chesterton
219-304-6700
1555 S. Main St.
Crown Point
219-323-8700
1532 Calumet Ave.
Dyer
219-515-4700
THIRD PLACE
Residences at Deer Creek
401 E. U.S. Hwy. 30
Schererville
219-864-0700
Best Spine Care
Dr. Zeshan Hyder with Bone and Joint Specialists PC of Northwest Indiana teaches spine surgery techniques at Pinnacle Hospital.
Bone and Joint Specialists
Dr. Zeshan Hyder
Multiple locations
At Bone and Joint Specialists, Dr. Zeshan Hyder specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery. His techniques allow for a faster recovery, with less pain, less blood loss and reduced chance of infections.
Hyder is involved in teaching those techniques to other spine surgeons from around the world. In April he taught spine surgeons from England how to perform a minimally invasive lumbar fusion.
Back pain can be debilitating, whether from an injury or from a disorder, because the spine is in use around the clock: sitting, walking, lying down, running, climbing stairs and more — even while asleep. Spine surgery techniques and technology have evolved significantly in the last 10 years. Surgical incisions can now be just inches and therefore less invasive with quicker healing times. That means patients recovering more quickly from surgery can get back to enjoying activities they love.
Surgeons at Bone and Joint Specialists use the most modern, innovative techniques in spine surgery to alleviate pain and help get patients back to their lives.
SECOND PLACE
Orthopaedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana
Dr. Nitin Khanna and Dr. Dwight Tyndall
Multiple locations
THIRD PLACE
Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute
Multiple locations
Best Urgent Care
Franciscan ExpressCare in Valparaiso
Franciscan ExpressCare
Multiple locations
Needing medical services can be stressful; a high level of care, expertise and compassion, as well as prompt attention can help make it a more positive experience. According to Franciscan ExpressCare operations director Janet Doms, the medical staff at ExpressCare focuses first and foremost on patients’ needs. “Our goal is always to provide compassionate, convenient, cost-effective, high-quality care in the most appropriate environment/location,” says Doms, a registered nurse.
Doms says the staff at Franciscan ExpressCare facilities includes dedicated physicians, advanced practice providers and clinicians. While waits are sometimes unavoidable, Franciscan ExpressCare works to minimize that time, Doms says.
Opened in 1985, the Franciscan Hammond Clinic was one of the area’s first urgent care facilities and expanded its services in 2008 to the ExpressCare in St. John. Franciscan ExpressCare has served Michigan City and Crown Point for several years, and many other locations throughout Northwest Indiana include the Franciscan Emergency Center Chesterton, which is open 24 hours.
“We are honored to serve our communities,” says Doms.
SECOND PLACE
Community Hospital Outpatient Center
9660 Wicker Ave.
St John
219-365-1177
THIRD PLACE
Community Hospital Emergency
901 MacArthur Blvd.
Munster
219-836-1600
Best Vein Care
Centers for Vein Care
Multiple locations
“We’re honored to win this award for another year,” says Dr. Keerthi Prasad, an interventional radiologist. “Being voted Best of the Region means our services are making a positive impact on our community, and we’d like to thank everyone who voted for us.
“Every patient is unique with different vein disease symptoms. We personalize treatment with the best technology available — with the ultimate goal of improving health and quality of life,” says Prasad.
“We offer a number of tailor-made treatments,” says Prasad, “and we try to achieve the best results with the easiest options,” including compression stockings and other lifestyle changes discussed from the first evaluation.
However, if further treatment is needed, the physicians at Centers for Vein Care have several options: VenaSeal, radiofrequency ablation, phlebectomy, and sclerotherapy.
“With our fully accredited surgical centers, we provide a safe environment and quality care to all of our patients,” says Dr. Monish Merchant.
“With five convenient locations throughout Northwest Indiana, our state-of-the-art treatments require little to no downtime for patients,” says Merchant. “We’re focused entirely on treating vein disease.”
SECOND PLACE
Vein and Laser Institute
Multiple locations
THIRD PLACE
Cardiovascular Consultants
10010 Donald S. Powers Drive
Munster
219-934-4200
Best Vision Care
Gailmard Eye Center is a 10,000-square-foot facility with 14 exam rooms, a large optical showroom, and an on-site optical laboratory.
Gailmard Eye Center
630 Ridge Rd.
Munster
219-836-1738
Gailmard Eye Center, one of the largest independent optometric practices in the country, has three full-time optometrists and 35 administrative and technical staff members. The vision care center is a 10,000-square-foot facility with 14 exam rooms, advanced diagnostic instrumentation, a large optical showroom, and an optical laboratory where glasses are made.
Gailmard Eye Center has been in business in Munster since 1976. The business combines professional experience with the latest technology for diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases.
“Customer service is built into the culture of our organization and we work hard to continually improve it,” Dr. Neil Gailmard, founder of the business, says, adding that everyone on staff has the same mission: to provide friendly, top-notch vision care for every customer. “We ask all patients for feedback on our services and we frequently hear comments that our staff is friendly and caring.”
SECOND PLACE
Levin Eye Care Center
1334 119th St.
Whiting
219-659-3050
THIRD PLACE
Moses EyeCare Centers
Multiple locations
Best Women's Health
Community Hospital Women’s Diagnostic Center
10020 Donald Powers Drive
Munster
219-934-8869
At Community Hospital Women's Diagnostic Center, comprehensive services include 3-D mammography; breast ultrasound, MRI, and PET scan; non-surgical breast biopsy; a high-risk breast clinic; genetics consultation; and bone density exams. The facility provides a complete breast care experience, supported by Dr. Mary Nicholson, a fellowship-trained, dedicated breast radiologist.
This year the Women’s Diagnostic Center added a Cancer Genetics Risk Program under the direction of Dr. Janice Zunich to identify and manage risks before disease develops and is detected.
The staff knows there is no typical patient when it comes to breast care, seeking to provide answers and reassurance as quickly as possible. Most patients visiting the facility are participating in yearly screening mammography, assisting in early detection.
“The community’s continued support of our facility is humbling; we recognize there are many options available in our region for breast care. A commitment to providing excellence in women’s health will continue to be our focus,” says Suzanne Ruiz, a registered nurse and breast health navigator and supervisor at Women’s Diagnostic Center.
SECOND PLACE
Franciscan Physician Network
Multiple locations
THIRD PLACE
Franciscan Health
Multiple locations
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