The Times 2026 Best of the Region: Health Care

Munster

219-595-5754

facebook.com/people/Layous-Medical-Group/61579808074956

Dr. Fadi Layous started Layous Medical Group in July 2013.

“I wanted to be able to make decisions regarding business aspects and the care provided to the patients I see. When given the opportunity to start my own practice, it was an exciting challenge. It has been wonderful to see the growth each year,” said Layous.

A dedicated staff that genuinely cares about the patients is part of what makes the office so special. “Customer service is the most important thing to our office. We have retained the same staff for a long time,” said Layous. “Our patients have become familiar with our staff. They care about each other and have developed a professional relationship.”

Among services offered are complete pulmonary function testing, allergy skin testing, allergy/asthma injections, biologic therapy, immunotherapy, vaccinations, sleep testing, pulmonary stress testing and nebulizer treatments.

“We hope to continue to offer the best care we possibly can, and continue to make an impact on the respiratory health of our Region,” said Layous.

SECOND PLACE

Dr. Jatinder Kansal

8969 Broadway

Merrillville

219-769-7761

methodisthospitals.org/physician/jatinder-k-kansal

THIRD PLACE

Carepointe ENT & Sinus Centers

Multiple locations

Carepointe.net

nwhealthporter.com

Northwest Health also was voted Best Cardiology Care.

SECOND PLACE

Northwest Cancer Centers

Multiple locations

219-924-8178

nccindiana.com

THIRD PLACE

Powers Health Cancer Care Services

Multiple locations

219-836-3477

PowersHealth.org/services/cancer-care

nwhealthporter.com

With three hospitals — in LaPorte, Valparaiso and Knox — Northwest Health delivers comprehensive cardiovascular care through a nationally recognized program known for quality and strong patient outcomes.

Patients benefit from access to some of the country’s leading cardiologists and a full continuum of services from preventive cardiology and advanced imaging to interventional cardiology, electrophysiology and open-heart surgery all close to home.

The health system’s structural heart program reflects this depth of expertise, with more than 500 transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures performed, along with 1,000 left atrial appendage closures to help reduce stroke risk in patients who cannot tolerate long-term blood thinners.

Equally important is the patient satisfaction. Patients consistently share that Northwest Health cardiologists take the time to listen, answer questions and involve them in care decisions, ensuring treatment plans are clinically advanced and personalized to enhance recovery.

Northwest Health also was voted Best Cancer Center.

SECOND PLACE

Cardiovascular Consultants

10010 Donald S. Powers Drive

Munster

219-934-4200

cardioconsultantspc.com

THIRD PLACE

Rush Munster

9200 Calumet Ave., Suite 107

Munster

219-806-6585

www.rush.edu/locations/rush-munster

Schererville

219-440-7250

myvivachiro.com

Born and raised in Chicago, Dr. Miguel Esquinca moved to Northwest Indiana, where he leads his team at Viva Chiropractic & Wellness. While chiropractic care is often associated with back pain, it can play a significant role in supporting whole-body health.

At Viva, patients can get relief from pain caused by issues from spine-related back pain to migraines, sciatica, carpal tunnel and injuries. Among the therapies and services offered are spinal decompression, which is a non-surgical procedure used for conditions such as bulging, herniated or degenerative disc disease. The procedure, which can take as little as 20 minutes per session, improves blood flow to the injured area.

Those suffering from vertigo can also benefit from chiropractic care, provided through a treatment to address the source of a patient’s symptoms.

SECOND PLACE

Disc Centers of America/Integrated Body & Medicine

8145 Kennedy Ave.

Highland

219-803-6651

integratedbodyandmed.com

THIRD PLACE

NorthShore Health Centers

Multiple locations

219-763-8112

northshorehealth.org

901 Fran Lin Pkwy.

Munster

219-836-0460

munsterdentist.com

9150 E. 109th Ave., Suite 3B

Crown Point

219-661-5085

winfieldfamilydental.com

Compton and Broomhead Dental Center in Munster and Winfield Family Dental in Crown Point are state-of-the-art facilities that provide patients with individualized treatment plans using the latest technology.

“I think this is an achievement that reflects more than just an excellence in dentistry,” Dr. Eric Compton said of being voted Best in the Region. “We have a deep-rooted commitment to patient care, community trust and a standard of service that sets us apart.”

The staff at both offices strives to treat patients like family, whether during routine cleanings, cosmetic enhancements or restorative procedures.

“Every service is delivered with attention to detail and patient comfort in mind,” Compton said. “Our goal has always been to provide the care we would want for our own families.”

Being recognized by the community is meaningful to the entire team, he says.

“It tells us that we are making a real difference in people’s lives,” Compton said.

SECOND PLACE

The Ivory Dental Studio

1906 U.S. Hwy. 41, Suite A

Schererville

219-554-8679

dentistscherervillein.com

THIRD PLACE

Chesterton Family Dental

505 Voyage Blvd.

Chesterton

219-929-9289

chestertonfamilydental.com

219-228-4200

dermiodermatology.com

At Dermio Dermatology, patients receive personalized care for a full spectrum of skin concerns, from routine medical needs to advanced dermatologic conditions.

Led by Dr. David Soleymani, the team includes experienced dermatologists and physician assistants who provide medical, surgical and cosmetic services, with a focus on skin cancer detection and treatment.

"At Dermio Dermatology, we believe that each encounter is an opportunity to build a relationship leading to overall improvement in skin health," Soleymani said. "We aim to blend high-level medical expertise with a personal, compassionate approach, where each and every patient feels heard, cared for and confident in their own skin."

The practice integrates the latest techniques and proven therapies into patient care. Services include advanced Mohs micrographic surgery, comprehensive medical dermatology and preventive skin health exams. In addition, esthetic services are available to enhance overall skin health and appearance.

Patients can expect attentive, high-quality care in a welcoming, family-oriented environment from their first visit through follow-up.

SECOND PLACE

Whittington Dermatology

Multiple locations

219-398-4234

whittingtondermatology.com

THIRD PLACE

Illinois Dermatology Institute

Multiple locations

219-491-3376

illinoisderm.com

219-836-3477

powershealth.org/services/ear-nose-throat

Powers Health was also voted Best Primary Health Care Network and Best Home Health Care.

SECOND PLACE

CarePoint Ear, Nose, Throat & Sinus Centers

Multiple locations

219-738-2617

carepointe.net

THIRD PLACE

Indiana Ear and Sinus Institute

2211 Main St., Suite 1A

Highland

219-836-9368

indianaearsinus.com

219-836-0022

geisslerhearing.com

Dr. Gina Geissler and her team at Dr. Geissler’s Hearing Center have been serving Northwest Indiana for more than 20 years, with an office in Hammond and two in Dyer.

The patient-focused service guides every aspect of care, she says.

“Hearing technology is constantly changing and improving,” Geissler said. “We are always learning about the newest technology to be able to fit patients with the best devices for their lifestyle.”

As hearing health continues to play a vital role in overall well-being, Geissler says her team will remain dedicated to helping patients stay connected to the sounds that matter most in their daily lives.

SECOND PLACE

Clear Ear Hearing Aid Center

827 W. 45th Ave.

Griffith

219-934-9747

clearearhearingaid.com

THIRD PLACE

Ascent Hearing Center

Multiple locations

219-732-2613

helpmehear.net

219-440-5400

powershealth.org/services/home-health

Powers Health was also voted Best Primary Health Care Network and Best Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist.

SECOND PLACE

Elite Care Management

250 W. 80th Place

Merrillville

219-648-2125

elitecaremanagement.com/indiana-coverage-area

THIRD PLACE

Franciscan Home Care Services

Multiple locations

219-933-6663

franciscanhealth.org

Valparaiso

1417 Michigan St.

Plymouth

888-602-9004

duneshospicellc.com

Dunes Hospice focuses on treating its patients and their loved ones with dignity, respect and, above all else, compassion, executive director Chad Schuitema says.

“Star ratings, customer satisfaction rates and even being voted Best in the Region is because of our outstanding team of nurses, certified nursing assistants, social workers, chaplains and all the other staff who make it their goal every day to provide comfort and peace throughout some of life’s most difficult times,” he said.

Dunes Hospice opened in 2014 with with just three employees, but has grown to more than 100 employees and two locations. The organization is accredited through the Accreditation Commission for Health Care.

SECOND PLACE

VNA Hospice NWI

1450 E. Joliet St., Suite 104

Crown Point

501 Marquette St.

Valparaiso

219-462-5195

vnanwi.org

THIRD PLACE

Hospice of the Calumet Area

Multiple locations

219-922-2732

hospicecalumet.org

franciscanhealth.org

Recently celebrating the 150th anniversary of treating its first patient, Franciscan Health continues to grow with several hospital campus projects in the works to better meet the needs of the communities it serves and expand access to specialized care.

Franciscan Health Munster is home to one of these major projects, where several Franciscan Physician Network offices are moving into an expanded medical office tower while an inpatient hospital tower expansion continues. Other projects include the transformation of Franciscan Health Dyer into a behavioral health campus by 2027 and the construction of The Dean and Barbara White Cancer Center, said Raymond Grady, president and CEO of Franciscan Health Crown Point, Dyer and Munster.

Grady and Dr. Stacey Leva, interim president and CEO of Franciscan Health Michigan City, say they are thrilled Franciscan’s hospitals across Northwest Indiana received this honor.

“What makes it particularly relevant is knowing it came from those who know us best, the patients we are blessed to serve,” Leva said. “Thank you to The Times, the readers and especially our co-workers who embody our Franciscan spirit and truly make us the Best of the Region.”

SECOND PLACE

Northwest Health

Multiple locations

nwhealthin.com

THIRD PLACE

Powers Health

Multiple locations

powershealth.org

Highland

219-487-2090

careinmotionllc.com

A compassionate, personalized approach at Care in Motion gives families peace of mind while ensuring care feels personal and never institutional, says Heidi Dennies, a registered nurse and owner and president of the home health care service.

“What truly sets Care in Motion apart is our commitment to bridging the gap between the medical and non-medical worlds,” she said. “With ownership rooted in both RN and CNA experience, we work closely with each client’s medical team to ensure continuity, safety and a higher standard of care.”

This one-on-one care allows clients to safely remain in their own homes.

“Our staff works tirelessly to ensure no shift goes uncovered — because families should never have to worry about whether someone will be there for their loved one,” Dennies said.

Ownership remains hands-on and even steps into the field when needed. Caregivers are also trained in several non-medical services, including assistance with bathing, dressing, medication reminders, meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation, memory care support and respite care.

“We didn’t just build a team,” Dennies said. “We built a family of caregivers and leaders who believe seniors deserve more than care. They deserve connection, dignity and joy in their everyday lives.”

SECOND PLACE

Visiting Angels Senior Home Care

2340 Cline Ave.

Schererville

219-322-6100

visitingangels.com

THIRD PLACE

Sandra Lee’s In-Home Care

7 N. Court St.

Crown Point

219-333-3900

slihc.care

Crown Point

219-266-7934

newyouaesthetics.org

New You Aesthetics specializes in natural, undetectable results that turn back the clock while enhancing natural beauty.

“From the moment patients walk in, they immediately become part of the New You family,” owner Brittany Holding said. “It is our goal to always make them feel seen, heard and understood, all while building confidence through minor adjustments that bring a refreshed appearance.”

Services include neurotoxins such as Botox, dermal fillers, biostimulators, microneedling, laser hair removal, skin resurfacing, weight loss and peptides, facials and head spa.

An aesthetic nurse practitioner with seven years of training, Holding specializes in full facial balancing through multi-modality treatments and regenerative medicine, she says.

SECOND PLACE

Dermio Dermatology

Multiple locations

219-228-4200

dermiodermatology.com

THIRD PLACE

Lumi Lasers & Aesthetics

10751 Randolph St.

Crown Point

219-779-9145

nwilumi.com

219-736-7400

superiorambulance.com

Superior Ambulance is a mainstay in emergency services in Northwest Indiana.

“Superior is the premier EMS provider in the Midwest, and we couldn't be more proud to serve Northwest Indiana,” said Jeffrey Collins, paramedic and general manager of Superior of Indiana. “From the dunes to the north and the family farms to the south, our impact reaches almost all of Northern Indiana.”

The organization provides 911 services for six communities and performs inter-facility transport for several hospitals in the state. “We have the privilege of providing everything from non-emergency transfer services to critical care transport and everything in between,” Collins said. “Our community is at the heart of what we do, and we plan to continue to treat them with integrity, empathy and superior patient care.”

Superior Ambulance Service of Indiana isn't just another “run of the mill” ambulance service, he said. “We are an installment in the Region,” Collins said. “Relied upon for excellent clinical care and safe, efficient transport for the people who need it most.”

SECOND PLACE

Northwest Indiana Transport

2636 W. Lincoln Hwy.

Merrillville

219-669-0594

facebook.com/Nwitransport

THIRD PLACE

St. John Fire Department

10955 W. 93rd Ave.

St. John

219-365-4800

stjohnin.gov/fire-department

Crown Point

219-228-4224

monarchhealthandwellness.net

At Monarch Health & Wellness, excellence is the standard for every patient interaction. Among the state-of-the-art services offered are EvexiPel Hormone Pellet Therapy and peptide treatments to promote overall wellness.

“From the beginning, our focus has been on bringing advanced, forward-thinking therapies to our community while making treatments that were once considered out of reach both accessible and practical for our patients,” said Cassie Layne, a certified nurse practitioner at Monarch Health & Wellness.

Yet it’s the relationships that matter most. “We take the time to get to know our patients, understand their goals and walk alongside them through every step of their journey,” she said.

By combining elevated, concierge-level service with connection and accessibility, patients receive top-of-the-line care in a supportive environment, Layne says.

“We believe the best outcomes come from strong relationships, and we’re proud to create an environment where patients feel known, supported and cared for,” she said.

SECOND PLACE

Premier Vitality

9615 Keilman St., Suite 203

St. John

219-224-6227

premiervitalityclinic.com

THIRD PLACE (TIE)

NorthShore Health Centers

1828 165th St.

Hammond

219-763-8112

northshorehealth.org/health-services/weight-loss-management

Prestige 2.0

11360 Broadway

Crown Point

7134 Calumet Ave.

Hammond

219-779-8550

www.prestige20.com

Schererville

219-864-0700

2300 Village Point

Chesterton

219-921-5200

residencesseniorliving.com

At Residences Senior Living, memory care is designed to feel less like a facility and more like home — an approach that helps residents feel secure while reassuring families that their loved ones are in a supportive, attentive environment.

Providing comfort and a stimulating atmosphere are top priorities at Residences at Deer Creek and Residences at Coffee Creek, said Melissa Caldwell, principal at WestShore Senior Living, which manages Residences Senior Living.

“This honor inspires our continued commitment to enhancing the experience for both residents and families through our unique, resident-centered approach — featuring flexible programming tailored to individual preferences, thoughtfully updated furnishings that preserve a warm, homelike atmosphere and ongoing advancements to our dining program that support overall health through nutrition and holistic therapies that encourage both appetite and independence,” Caldwell said.

The memory care neighborhoods feature amenities like salon services, scheduled transportation, multi-sensory therapy programming, a variety of large and small living rooms for gatherings and multipurpose activity rooms for classes, group fitness programs and religious services.

SECOND PLACE

Bickford of Crown Point

140 E. 107th Ave.

Crown Point

219-356-6240

bickfordseniorliving.com

THIRD PLACE

Cedar Creek Health Campus

18275 S. Burr St.

Lowell

219-696-6750

trilogyhs.com/senior-living/in/lowell/cedar-creek-health-campus

Schererville

1100 S. Calumet Road, Suite 3B

Chesterton

219-228-7630

anxietybehavioralhealth.com

Anxiety & OCD Behavioral Health Center specializes in treating anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and related conditions using evidence-based approaches such as exposure and response prevention, cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy.

“We're incredibly grateful for the trust families place in us,” says Heather Plinovich, owner and clinical psychologist. “Many patients come to us after feeling stuck elsewhere, and our goal is to provide care that is both deeply personalized and grounded in what actually works.”

What continues to set the center apart is its focus on precision and real-world results. Treatment is guided by clear case conceptualization, measurable progress and active collaboration with patients and families.

“We don't take a one-size-fits-all approach,” Plinovich said. “We focus on identifying what's maintaining the problem and targeting that directly so patients can move forward in meaningful ways.”

SECOND PLACE

NorthShore Health Centers

Multiple locations

219-763-8112

northshorehealth.org

THIRD PLACE

Franciscan Health

Multiple locations

franciscanhealth.org

343 E. 90th Drive

Merrillville

219-769-2145

gardant.com/belvedereseniorhousing

Nursing is more than a profession to Michelle Hynek. “It’s a calling to care for people with compassion, dignity and presence during some of the most important moments of their lives,” she said.

A registered nurse, Hynek has been director of nursing at Belvedere Senior Housing since 2024. She has an open-door policy for residents and staff so she can understand their needs and challenges, as well as provide support. Hynek says she thinks of the facility’s residents as more than patients. To her, they're family.

“We have the privilege of caring for them in the place they call home, building meaningful relationships and supporting them through both challenges and celebrations,” she said. “That connection is what makes this work so rewarding and why I’m proud to be part of a team that genuinely lives out the mission of people taking care of people every day.”

SECOND PLACE

Patricia Epperson

NorthShore Health Centers

1828 E. 165th St.

Hammond

219-763-8112

northshorehealth.org

THIRD PLACE

Teresa Hunt

Dunes Hospice

4711 Evans Ave.

Valparaiso

888-602-9004

duneshospicellc.com

219-323-8700

ignitemedicalresorts.com

Ignite Medical Resorts blends advanced medical rehabilitation with the elevated comfort and service of a five-star resort setting. Comprehensive clinical programs and on-site therapy support high-quality care, while private suites and upscale amenities such as spa services, chef-prepared meals and concierge support create a more personalized guest experience.

“The facility strives to be the recognized leader for post-acute rehabilitation services, providing best-in-class therapy, nursing and patient wellness,” said Barry Carr, chairman and co-founder of Ignite Medical Resorts.

Kelly Petty, vice president of business development, says the resorts use cutting-edge technology, including robotics in rehabilitation gyms, as well as some of the technology U.S. Olympic teams use.

“Ignite will continue to strive to be our Region’s trusted source for post-hospital rehabilitation as we take immense pride in delivering great outcomes,” she said.

Ignite Medical Resorts also was voted Best Retirement/Assisted Living Community.

SECOND PLACE

Hartsfield Village

10000 Columbia Ave.

Munster

219-934-0750

hartsfieldvillage.com

THIRD PLACE

Cedar Creek Health Campus

18275 S. Burr St.

Lowell

219-327-1551

trilogyhs.com/senior-living/in/lowell/cedar-creek-health-campus

219-322-8008

www.aacorthodontics.com

A commitment to a personalized, patient-first experience is what residents can expect when visiting AAC Orthodontics, Dr. Joseph Deek says.

“Our team works to ensure every visit is comfortable, efficient and educational, while building lasting relationships with the families we serve,” he said. “We believe orthodontics is about more than straight teeth. It’s about confidence, overall health and long-term wellness.”

Part of AAC Orthodontics' approach is on airway-focused orthodontics, where treatment can influence overall health, Deek said. Jaw development and alignment can affect breathing and sleep, for example.

Deek and his team use advanced technology including digital scanning, 3-D X-rays and airway imaging for a customized approach. “We also provide traditional, surgical and aligner orthodontic treatment, allowing us to treat a variety of patients and cases,” Deek said.

Born and raised in Northwest Indiana, Deek says it’s meaningful to serve the community he calls home.

“It’s truly a blessing and a privilege to be recognized for the welcoming, patient-centered environment we strive to create every day,” he said.

SECOND PLACE

Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics

Multiple locations

219-769-7447

pandcsmiles.com

THIRD PLACE

Orthodontic Specialists

Dr. Koufos & Associates

1734 45th St.

Munster

219-924-1440

9321 Wicker Ave., Suite 201

St. John

219-365-2323

orthospcs.com

Munster

10200 Wicker Ave., Suite 1

St. John

219-924-3300

osni.org

At Orthopedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana, the goal is simple — to provide the kind of orthopedic care team members would want for their own families, says Dr. Nitin Khanna, a spine surgeon at OSNI.

“That means combining advanced technology with a hands-on, patient-first approach while taking the time to truly listen, educate and guide each patient through their recovery,” he said.

Being named Best in the Region is a testament to the consistency and dedication of the team, Khanna says.

“Our physicians, clinical staff and support teams all play a vital role in creating a seamless, compassionate experience for every patient who walks through our doors,” he said. “We’re proud to continue serving our community with trusted, high-quality care.”

SECOND PLACE

Bone & Joint Specialists

Multiple locations

219-795-3360

orthopedicdoctors.com

THIRD PLACE

Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute

Multiple locations

219-921-1444

lbji.com

Munster

1100 S. Calumet Road, Suite 1

Chesterton

219-836-7246

spinecaremw.com

Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists was also voted Best Spine Care.

SECOND PLACE

APAC Centers for Pain Management

Multiple locations

219-300-5234

apacpain.com

THIRD PLACE

Powers Health Medical Group

Multiple locations

866-836-3477

powershealth.org/services/pain-management

Valparaiso

219-462-0555

3630 Willowcreek Road, 2nd Floor, Suite 6

Portage

219-364-3250

associatedpediatricians.com

The team at Associated Pediatricians works to help the Region’s children and their families achieve good health and reach their greatest potential.

“We look at every patient encounter as an opportunity for communication, education and positive medical care,” Dr. Pablo Bukata said. “This is truly how I try to walk into every room, and this is what our whole office is striving for.”

In addition to well and sick visits, the Valparaiso and Portage offices offer a wide range of services from ADHD and ADD evaluations to lactation consultations, behavioral health evaluations, car seat checks, stress screenings and workshops.

SECOND PLACE

Kids First Pediatrics on 30

1160 Joliet St., Suite 103

Dyer

219-322-8534

kidsfirstnwi.com

THIRD PLACE

NorthShore Health Centers

Multiple locations

219-763-8112

northshorehealth.org

219-763-8112

northshorehealth.org

At NorthShore Health Centers, the pharmacy is more than a place to fill prescriptions. It’s an essential part of how patient-centered care is coordinated and delivered, CEO David Hall says.

“By integrating pharmacy services directly with our health services teams, we’re able to remove common barriers like cost, access and delays in treatment,” he said.

Pharmacists work closely with providers to ensure patients not only receive the right medications but also understand how to use them safely and effectively. Through programs such as discounted prescriptions and participation in the 340B Drug Pricing Program, which offers drugs at discounts in safety net hospitals, NorthShore can make medications more accessible, Hall says.

“We believe access to medication is a critical part of overall health,” he said. “Being named Best Pharmacy reflects our team’s commitment to expanding access and delivering the kind of care our communities can count on every day.”

SECOND PLACE

Valparaiso Professional Pharmacy

3540 Calumet Ave.

Valparaiso

219-462-1484

valporx.com

THIRD PLACE

Meijer Pharmacy

6050 U.S. Hwy. 6

Portage

219-763-0401

meijer.com

orthopedicandbalancetherapy.com

Using advanced technology and diagnostic methods, the physical therapists at Orthopedic & Balance Therapy Specialists offer customized treatment options for multiple types of injuries to help patients remain comfortable and pain-free.

“Orthopedic & Balance Therapy Specialists is honored to have served the Northwest Indiana region for 23 years,” said Shane Nowak, director of Wow Experience. “We have the privilege of helping people achieve unhindered lives through physical therapy. Our team at OBTS is phenomenal and our one-on-one care sets us apart."

Helping patients matters most to the team, Nowak says.

“We truly look forward to serving the Northwest Indiana area for many more years and are driven daily to make a difference to others,” Nowak said.

SECOND PLACE

Innovative Physical Therapy

Multiple locations

219-926-5850

goinnovativept.com

THIRD PLACE

Powers Health Therapy Services

Multiple locations

219-836-4527

powershealth.org/services/therapy-services

50 W. 94th Place

Crown Point

219-663-2273

friendlyfootcare.com

Dr. Michael Nirenberg and the team at Friendly Foot Care are committed to delivering attentive, patient-centered care for those experiencing ankle, heel or foot pain.

Since 1992, the practice has focused on easing discomfort through advanced treatments and surgical options. Known to patients as “Dr. Mike,” Nirenberg brings a problem-solving mindset to his work, extending his expertise beyond the clinic to assist law enforcement with gait analysis in criminal investigations.

His specialized knowledge has also been featured in major national publications. The practice remains dedicated to providing thorough, compassionate care while continuing to serve the community with a high standard of excellence.

SECOND PLACE

Dr. James Hong

Bone & Joint Specialists

Multiple locations

219-795-3360

orthopedicdoctors.com/dr-james-hong

THIRD PLACE

Dr. Ahmad Dabbouseh

Orthopedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana

9900 Columbia Ave.

Munster

10200 Wicker Ave., Suite 1

St. John

219-924-3300

osni.org/dr-ahmad-dabbouseh.php

219-836-3477

powershealth.org

Powers Health Medical Group is an organization of more than 450 providers who help families get the most out of life and health. These health-care professionals, affiliated with Powers Health, draw upon the expertise and resources of Community Hospital in Munster, St. Catherine Hospital in East Chicago, St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart and Powers Health Rehabilitation Center in Crown Point.

Practices located throughout Northwest Indiana provide a broad range of expertise from primary to specialty care and surgical specialties. Its providers work collaboratively and lend their expertise and innovation to bring Northwest Indiana residents high-quality health care.

Powers Health was also voted Best Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist and Best Home Health Care.

SECOND PLACE

Franciscan Physician Network

Multiple locations

franciscanhealth.org

THIRD PLACE

NorthShore Health Centers

Multiple locations

219-763-8112

northshorehealth.org

219-323-8700

ignitemedicalresorts.com

Ignite Medical Resorts also was voted Best Nursing Care/Acute Rehab Community.

SECOND PLACE

Hartsfield Village

10000 Columbia Ave.

Munster

219-934-0750

hartsfieldvillage.com

THIRD PLACE

Belvedere Senior Housing

343 E. 90th Drive

Merrillville

219-769-2145

gardant.com/belvedereseniorhousing

Munster

1100 S. Calumet Road, Unit 1

Chesterton

219-836-7246

spinecaremw.com

Exceptional spine care extends far beyond the procedure. “It’s about understanding the patient’s story, and that’s what drives everything we do,” said Dr. Shaun Kondamuri, managing director and interventional spine and pain physician.

Untreated spine-related pain can progress into a more complex health concern, especially when care is delayed. Seeking treatment early not only helps reduce discomfort, but it also can support better mobility and a stronger quality of life.

For more than 25 years, the doctors at Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists have delivered care for spine conditions, including nerve-related pain, herniated discs, joint issues and work-related injuries, as well as more complex diagnoses such as cervicogenic headaches, failed back surgery syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome, and sports-related injuries.

Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists was also voted Best Pain Management.

SECOND PLACE

Powers Health Medical Group

Multiple locations

219-836-3477

powershealth.org/services/orthopedics

THIRD PLACE

Orthopedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana

9900 Columbia Ave.

Munster

10200 Wicker Ave., Suite 1

St. John

219-924-3300

osni.org

Multiple locations

219-795-3360

orthopedicdoctors.com

From micro reconstruction to motion preservation/restoration, Dr. Mohammad S. Shukairy has been performing minimally invasive surgical treatments for the past 15 years.

“I enjoy aiding patients who are navigating a spine health crisis toward its resolution and helping them get back to living their lives fully,” he says.

And while he appreciates winning this category, he’s also fully aware that it is far from an individual honor.

“I have such a great team that supports what I do,” he explains. “From the front desk staff and back office personnel to my physician’s assistant and nurse practitioner, I am indebted to all of them for allowing me to do what I do.”

SECOND PLACE

Dr. Nitin Khanna

Orthopedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana

9900 Columbia Ave.

Munster

10200 Wicker Ave., Suite 1

St. John

219-924-3300

osni.org

THIRD PLACE

Dr. Nick Nenadovich

Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute

601 Gateway Blvd.

Chesterton

219-395-2107

lbji.com

midwestexpressclinic.com

Muhammad Tayyab believes urgent care has become the front door of health care. As chief of staff at Midwest Express Clinic, he’s seen the growing need for the kind of care that Midwest provides based on what’s happening today.

“That’s where Midwest Express Clinic fills the gap immediately,” Tayyab explains. “We provide care within an hour of the thought. And no other part of the health care system truly competes with that level of access, speed and convenience. Whether it is a sick child, an unexpected injury, testing, treatment or simply peace of mind, we make it easy to get quality care fast.”

Tayyab says patients value the consistency that Midwest Express Clinic offers, including convenient neighborhood locations, extended hours, short wait times, transparent value and a care experience people can trust.

But what really sets them apart from other urgent care options throughout the Region is something that can’t be quantified.

“Our real differentiator is heart,” he says. “Our teams treat patients like neighbors, not numbers. That human approach creates loyalty you cannot buy with advertising. When someone can walk in, be seen quickly, receive quality care and feel genuinely cared for, they remember it. They come back, they bring their families, and they recommend us to others.”

SECOND PLACE

Powers Health Immediate Care

Multiple locations

219-836-3477

powershealth.org/services/immediate-care

THIRD PLACE

Franciscan ExpressCare

Multiple locations 

franciscanhealth.org/conditions-and-services/urgent-care

931 Ridge Road, Suite C

Munster

219-595-3095

regionvein.com

Dr. Demetrios Karamichos has been treating veins exclusively since 2007. And in that nearly 20 years, the source of his joy in the work has never wavered.

“What I enjoy most is seeing the eagerness and excitement in our patients when they come to the office knowing their legs are going to feel so much better,” he says.

But getting to those outcomes is not the result of a one-man show. From taking appointments to answering patient questions to following up on post-visit needs, Karamichos says the success of Region Vein is a collective effort.

“Just having a skilled doctor is not what makes an office successful,” he says. “The quality of the team behind him is what can turn a good practice into a really great practice. And I’m very lucky to have a great team behind me.”

SECOND PLACE

Cardiovascular Consultants

Multiple locations

cardioconsultantspc.com

THIRD PLACE

Dr. Dominic Tolitano

Center for Vein Restoration

9410 Calumet Ave., Suite 202

Munster

240-249-8250

www.centerforvein.com/our-clinics/locations/munster-indiana

Whiting

219-659.3050

levineyecare.com

Building a successful health-care practice is about more than just having the latest technologies and treatment options. It’s also about building relationships and establishing trust with patients. It’s a combination that Levin Eye Care Center seems to have mastered.

“We combine cutting-edge technology with a personal, family-oriented touch,” explains marketing manager Daniel Alonzo. “Having served the Region for five decades, we’ve built long-standing relationships with our patients, ensuring that every individual who walks through our doors receives customized care tailored to their specific needs.”

Alonzo says that everyone at Levin has a patient-first philosophy. That means staying ahead of industry trends and investing in the latest diagnostic tools, of course, but also never losing sight of the importance of clear communication and genuine compassion.

“Consistency and trust are the foundations of everything we do.”

SECOND PLACE

Eagle Eye Optique

449 E. Summit St.

Crown Point

219-662-1600

eagleeyeoptique.com

THIRD PLACE

Moses Eye Care Center

Multiple locations

moseseyecare.com

Crown Point

219-248-7020

pelvicaffinity.com

Co-owners Dr. Ashley Dumont and Dr. Alli Amptmeyer set out to build Pelvic Affinity as a practice centered on compassion, education and empowerment, ensuring patients feel heard and supported. Because they believe that’s what women need in their health-care provider.

“Trust in women’s health starts with empathy, active listening and clinical expertise,” explains Dumont. “Patients need to feel safe discussing sensitive concerns, so creating a supportive and judgment-free environment is essential. At Pelvic Affinity, our team prioritizes building genuine relationships with our patients so they feel confident, respected and cared for at every step.”

“A passion for pelvic health and commitment to improving quality of life for our patients is at the heart of everything we do,” says Amptmeyer. “We invest time in understanding each individual’s goals and challenges, and our collaborative environment allows us to deliver exceptional, consistent care.”

SECOND PLACE

Strive Healing

950 Richard Road

Dyer

219-595-8077

strivehealing.com

THIRD PLACE

NorthShore Health Centers

Multiple locations

219-763-8112

northshorehealth.org/health-services/womens-health