The Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program

Through the latest clinical research, state-of-the-art diagnostics, and nutritional and behavioral support, we believe in establishing a personalized treatment approach that optimizes current and investigational therapies. The IBD Program combines that approach with a collaborative team effort among gastroenterologists, specialized nurses and advanced practice providers, colorectal surgeons, wound/ostomy specialists and specialty pharmacists. The IBD Program also provides a seamless transition of care for pediatric to adult patients.

The Northwestern Memorial Hospital IBD Program has been recognized by the National Center for Quality Assurance (NCQA) as a top-tier Patient-Centered Specialty Practice by demonstrating the IBD team’s ability to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care with a focus on proactive coordination and information sharing.

With a collaborative model, the IBD Program effectively coordinates care with primary care and other referring clinicians, community resources and secondary services. By doing so, our goals are better patient outcomes, improved quality of care, reduced healthcare costs, improved patient experience, and better management of chronic conditions.

The IBD Program also takes care of other healthcare issues related to Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. For example:

• Colon cancer screening
• Stoma care
• Psychological issues often associated with chronic disease

For more information on the NCQA designation, please visit ncqa.org.

Support groups can be an important way to access information and learn about various patient-inspired coping techniques. We currently host the following:

• IBD: Support group for our patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
• Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss: Support group for our post-surgical patients
• Friends and Family: Support group for friends and family of patients with IBD