Report to the Community

Our Whole Approach Takes on Complex Neurological Challenges

With the latest technology and top neurology specialists, the Neuroscience Program at Saint Mary’s is taking on neurological disorders and leading the way with advanced treatments. With stereotactic neurosurgery, we’re treating patients with primary and metastatic brain tumors. Technological and surgical advances are providing new options to stop movement disorders caused by epilepsy and Parkinsonism. Our neurologists are providing life-saving surgery for aneurysm patients and relief from chronic pain for those suffering from neck, back, and spinal disorders. Like many serious conditions, we know that the complexities of neurological disorders are not only disabling physically, but often emotionally as well. So our neurosurgeons, radiologists, clinical nurse specialists, and other experts are joined by those who offer complementary therapies and services to take care of all of you, body, mind, and spirit. Our patients become part of their own health care team to make decisions and manage the process. We also know the importance others can have in helping neurological patients heal. So we involve family, friends, and others with active roles in the care and healing process.

Michigan’s Only Multi-disciplinary Parkinson’s Clinic

The Parkinson’s Clinic
When it opens this summer, Saint Mary’s newest Center of Excellence will be the state’s first multi-disciplinary Parkinson’s Clinic, sparing patients frustrating and difficult out-of-state travel for coordinated care. Similar to the multi-disciplinary approach in Saint Mary’s other Centers of Excellence, our Parkinson’s specialists will work together at one location, communicating in real time. Our neurologist, neurosurgeon, advanced practice nurse, occupational therapist, clinical dietician, speech therapist, physiatrist, health care psychologist, and other specialists will coordinate care for each individual patient. This neurological disorder presents multi-dimensional problems, with many patients experiencing 50 or more different symptoms from movement difficulties and involuntary tremors to slow speech and depression. The multiple dimensions of the disease make the
multi-disciplinary coordinated care a more effective treatment approach.

Every year, an average of 75 new brain tumor cases occur in the Grand Rapids area. Saint Mary’s Neuroscience Program is regionally recognized, now performing 125 brain tumor procedures annually.

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