The Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program

The Northwestern Medicine Hanauer IBD Center, part of the Digestive Health Institute, is named in honor of Dr. Stephen Hanauer, a globally recognized leader in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Through decades of pioneering research, therapeutic innovation and guideline development, Dr. Hanauer has helped advance the standard of care for patients with IBD worldwide.

Building on this legacy of excellence, the Hanauer IBD Program is dedicated to improving outcomes for individuals living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis through leading-edge research, advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment strategies. Our comprehensive approach extends beyond medical care to include nutritional guidance, behavioral health resources and ongoing support designed to enhance overall well-being and quality of life.

Patients benefit from a multidisciplinary team of expert gastroenterologists, nurses, colorectal surgeons, wound care specialists, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals who work collaboratively to deliver seamless, coordinated care. We also provide a structured transition program to ensure adolescents and young adults move smoothly from pediatric to adult IBD care, maintaining continuity and support every step of the way.

Through clinical expertise, innovation and compassionate care, the Northwestern Medicine Hanauer IBD Center is advancing the future of IBD treatment and helping patients achieve healthier, more fulfilling lives.

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