Medical Group

Merilda Blanco-Guzman, M.D., joins Norton Infectious Disease Specialists

Merilda Blanco-Guzman, M.D., has joined Norton Infectious Disease Specialists and will practice on the downtown campus. Dr. Blanco-Guzman, who is board certified in infectious diseases, completed her fellowship in the field at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri. She was in Washington University’s mentored training program in clinical investigation while pursuing a…

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CME, Medical Group

‘MedChat’ podcast, episode 11: ‘Vaccine Hesitancy’

Episode 11 of the “MedChat” podcast is now available. This episode, “Vaccine Hesitancy: Scope and Solutions,” discusses one of the top 10 threats to global health. This episode will help providers describe factors that influence a family’s tendency to be hesitant to vaccinate, discuss effective strategies to address vaccine hesitancy with parents and understand the…

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Obstetrics

Helping patients understand a midwife’s role

A certified nurse midwife (CNM) is a board-certified nurse practitioner who works with mom and advocates for her wishes. The CNM works in a hospital setting, and mom benefits from the safety for herself and her baby. CNMs are trained to care for low-risk pregnancies. They work closely with obstetricians to determine the need for…

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Medical Group

Norton Healthcare pharmacy recognized for speedy application of antibiotics for especially dangerous infections

The Norton Healthcare pharmacy department has been recognized with a prestigious award for its efforts to speed antibiotics to patients with bacterial infections that have spread to the bloodstream. The American Society of Health System Pharmacists awarded a Best Practices Award to the Norton Healthcare rapid bacteremia response protocol. As part of the Norton Healthcare…

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Cardiovascular

Some pregnancy complications can signal risk for heart disease after delivery

Preeclampsia and gestational hypertension are indicators for an increased chance of heart disease later in life. Preeclampsia occurs in about 5% to 8% of pregnant women after the 20th week of pregnancy or after giving birth. High blood pressure is accompanied by protein in the urine or other physical symptoms, such as a severe persistent…

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Oncology/Hematology

Patient navigator has had passion for oncology since nursing school

Rhonda Walker, R.N., patient navigator with Norton Cancer Institute, has had a passion for working with patients with cancer since she attended nursing school. “The changes and advancements I have seen in oncology care are astounding,” Rhonda said. “I continue to be excited for what the future holds for our patients.” Rhonda has worked for…

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Pediatric Services

First patients welcomed at the Jennifer Lawrence CICU

The first patients have moved into the Jennifer Lawrence Cardiac Critical Care Unit (CICU) at Norton Children’s Hospital. More than 60 staff members lined the hallway to welcome caregivers who will be working on the unit and the first official patient in early January 2020. “This is a very exciting day,” said Deanna R. Todd…

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CME, Medical Group

‘MedChat’ podcasts reach 1,000 downloads

Norton Healthcare’s “MedChat” podcast provides continuing medical education (CME) for physicians and health care providers on-the-go. The monthly 30-minute podcast now has been downloaded over 1,400 times. Each episode dives into the key issues surrounding a particular medical topic. “MedChat” provides convenience and flexibility, keeping you up to date on relevant industry information. Topics are…

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Medical Group

Norton Medical Group welcomes these new providers as of January 1, 2020

Bassel Alkhalil, M.D. Norton Heart Specialists Medical degree: University of Damascus School of Medicine, Syria Residency: Internal medicine, Harbor Hospital Center, Baltimore, Maryland Fellowships: Advanced heart failure and cardiovascular diseases, University of Louisville Amanda W. Carricato, M.D. Norton Breast RadiologyMedical degree: University of Louisville School of Medicine Residency: Radiology, University of Louisville Fellowship: Breast imaging,…

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Cardiovascular

VIDEO: Virtual tour of Jennifer Lawrence Cardiac Intensive Care Unit

Young patients with serious heart conditions — and their families — have moved into the Jennifer Lawrence Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Norton Children’s Hospital. What does a patient room look like? What does it mean for pediatric heart care for patients from Louisville and the region, including Southern Indiana? Take a look inside the…

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Gynecology, Pediatric Services

Talking to parents about the pill for a child

You’ve seen the look. You’ve suggested a parent’s daughter may benefit from taking birth control. Emphasizing the purposes that have nothing to do with birth control can help explain your recommendation. The pill can regulate certain hormone levels and make life a little more bearable for the young patient. Here’s how the pill can help:…

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Medical Group

Hala Karnib, M.D., takes patient sleep seriously

Hala Karnib, M.D., pulmonary diseases and sleep medicine physician, specializes in serious respiratory conditions in the intensive care unit and treating outpatients who have difficulty getting a good night’s sleep. Dr. Karnib found her calling early in life and never strayed from it. Not in grade school. Not in high school. Not in college or…

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