BroMenn Healthcare Neurosciences/Stroke Program
It takes a significant commitment to effectively treat something as complicated as the human nervous system. It takes research, state-of-the-art imaging technology, specialized therapeutic facilities and, most of all, the knowledge of physicians highly trained in neurology, neurosurgery and neuroradiology.
Centralized Neuroscience Unit
Nowhere is that commitment more evident than at BroMenn Regional Medical Center's 13-bed, dedicated neuroscience unit. The only one of its kind in McLean County, the unit centralizes all neurological patients into one area, where they are cared for by nurses who have been specially trained in aspects of neuroscience and critical care. Nine of the patient rooms are private. A state-of-the-art monitoring system on the unit allows patients' vital signs to be monitored simultaneously in their room, at the nurses' station and at a central monitoring station on the critical care unit.
Primary Stroke Center
BroMenn Regional Medical Center (BRMC) is also regarded as a leader in the treatment of stroke. Its Stroke Program has a mission to promote the prevention, diagnosis and evidence-based treatment of stroke within this community and region. The program provides a coordinated, comprehensive and patient-focused approach to care for adult victims of ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes and Transient Ischemic Strokes (TIAs, or "mini-strokes"). Patients access the program by referral from a neurologist and are cared for in the Intensive Care Unit or the Neuro Specialty Care Unit. In 2007, BroMenn joined a select group of hospitals to be designated as a Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission, and was recertified in 2009.
BroMenn Community Wellness Services and BroMenn Women's Center periodically offer public education programs on stroke and related illnesses & conditions.
Residency Program
BroMenn also has a neurosurgical residency program, in cooperation with the Central Illinois Neuroscience Foundation (CINF), the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, and the Osteopathic Post-Doctoral Training Institute. The residency program provides specially selected graduates of osteopathic programs with neurosurgical training after they have completed an internship. Residents spend five years receiving directed and supervised neurosurgical training from CINF neurosurgeons. This includes select outrotations in pediatric neurosurgery and trauma surgery. CINF's Keith Kattner, D.O., serves as the program's director.
Community Cancer Center
Leading the way in innovative treatment and technologies, the Community Cancer Center in Normal is proud to be the first Midwest facility to offer the Cyberknife for treatment of lesions in the spine, head & neck, and other body sites. This radiosurgical tool is both proven and cutting edge, with the Cyberknife team coordinating care and developing treatment protocols.
Stroke/Brain Injury Support Group
BroMenn also supports the Stroke/Brain Injury Support Group of the Bloomington/Normal Area. Survivors of a stroke or brain injury need not cope alone with their recovery, but can discuss successes and setbacks in an open, supportive setting. Meeting once a month, the group seeks to establish and nurture a community of stroke and brain injury survivors, caregivers, and family members. Together, they support each other as survivors, handling everyday challenges. Meetings consist of informational presentations by local healthcare providers on a variety of options and resources available to survivors. Coupled with group discussions on individual experiences and obstacles, topics are open for those who wish to share their stories with others. Immediate support for survivors and caregivers from experienced volunteers is also available during these trying times. Meetings are held every third Tuesday of each month from 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the Central Illinois Neuroscience Foundation, 1015 S. Mercer Avenue, Bloomington. For more information, contact Jackie Smith at 217-935-5476 or Chris Donnan at 217-935-8789.
Eureka Community Hospital
Eureka Community Hospital, an affiliate hospital of BRMC, also hosts a neurosurgery clinic, so patients in Woodford County don't have to travel too far from home to see a specialist.