Norton Children’s has named a new physician to lead its gastroenterology team.

James P. Franciosi, M.D., will serve as chief of Norton Children’s Gastroenterology and division chief of the University of Louisville School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. In these roles, Dr. Franciosi will lead Norton Children’s team of physicians and staff dedicated to treating pediatric gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, including esophagus, stomach, small and large intestinal tract, liver and pancreas conditions, as well as nutritional issues. He also will be tasked with leading the vision for research, education, and advocacy in the field of Pediatric Gastroenterology. This work will be instrumental in developing and providing access to new treatments for pediatric GI disorders.

“I am excited and honored to lead the Norton Children’s Gastroenterology team and the UofL Division of Gastroenterology,” Dr. Franciosi said. “Our vision is to develop and expand our group of physicians and GI healthcare team members to provide outstanding care to patients throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana. There is great opportunity to grow our research and create more access, so everyone in our region can receive care close to home.”

Dr. Franciosi was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota and has practiced at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and recently Nemours Children’s Hospital in Orlando, Florida. He is leading efforts in pediatric GI personalized medicine research, and also a specialized condition called eosinophilic esophagitis, a chronic immune condition that leads to inflammation of the esophagus.

“Jim has established himself as one of the top pediatric GI physicians in the country, and we’re excited for him to join our team,” said Susan Strack, system vice president, pediatric services, Norton Children’s. “Norton Children’s knows GI is a core service that is critical to providing comprehensive care for our patients. I look forward to seeing his vision unfold as we work to grow this department to ensure children are able to get the specialty care they need, where they live.”

“Gastroenterology is one of those core services that contributes to a comprehensive care delivery system. It is a goal of the UofL Department of Pediatrics to grow this program, and Jim’s hiring as the division chief of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition will elevate that mission,” said Kimberly A. Boland, M.D., chief of staff, Norton Children’s Hospital, and Chair of Pediatrics at the UofL School of Medicine. “His focus on developing personalized care for children with GI disorders has greatly advanced child health. Our faculty, staff, fellows, residents and medical students are eager to benefit from his experience.”

Dr. Franciosi began his positions Oct. 1 and will start seeing patients in November.