Need Integrative Doc in Chicago area

[LNN]

I have a friend (adult) who's struggling with Crohn's and needs to find an open-minded, curious doctor - preferably in the integrative realm. Does anyone in the Chicago area know of doctors who will look at a broader picture and ask a lot of "why's" instead of just reaching for a prescription pad? Maybe someone who'd consider LDN? Posting this on several forums - thanks

[MomWithOCDSon]

Oooh Laura . . . good luck! If you wind up coming up with anything promising, can you pass it on? I've been looking for a while now in this area, and it is not easy! The Heart of the Medically Conservative Midwest, that's what we should call ourselves instead of "Chicagoans."

 

I've only been able to find one integrative practice in the area, and I can't remember exactly what it was, but something about whoever I spoke with a year or so ago turned me off. I can't remember if this was one of those places that took weeks and weeks to return my initial call, or if they were one of the offices that refused to discuss anything meaningful over the phone and would only respond to my queries ("Have you ever treated PANDAS?" "Will you work with/consult with other doctors who have a stake in my son's care?") once we were in an appointment, or what. If you've Googled, you've probably already hit upon them; unfortunately, I don't see any specialties in gastro issues, but maybe when it comes to integrative, that doesn't mean all that much? Anyway, here's a link to the practice:

 

WholeHealth Chicago

 

Interesting enough, poking around today for the first time in over a year when it comes to this topic, I find that our area's most prestigious teaching hospital (debatably, I suppose) has now begun an "integrative practice." I know nothing about them, and the info available on line is scant, but it might be worth a shot, too, especially if insurance is a concern. This medical center and its network of doctors typically accept all the major plans:

 

Northwestern Hospital Integrative

 

Good luck!

[fightingmom]

Oh man do I miss that city. Someday I will move back! Nancy, what are your thoughts on NW? I have not had the best experiences there.

 

Maybe this site will help?

 

http://www.chicagohealers.com/

Edited April 19, 2012 by fightingmom

[MomWithOCDSon]

Oh man do I miss that city. Someday I will move back! Nancy, what are your thoughts on NW? I have not had the best experiences there.

 

Maybe this site will help?

 

http://www.chicagohealers.com/

 

No, I will admit that I've not had super experiences at Northwestern myself, though the network just keeps growing, so things can vary greatly from location to location. I actually delivered my DS15 at Prentiss Women's Hospital at the downtown Northwestern campus, in the last year or so before their new maternity facility was completed and ready to go. We had a horrible birthing experience, but that's a story for a different day.

 

Frankly, though, the whole integrative thing at Northwestern peaks my interest. I'm hoping it's a sign of the times that maybe they're finally stepping into the 21st century!

[LNN]

Thank you ladies!! Wish you had more optimism but I appreciate the leads!

[MomWithOCDSon]

LLM -- I actually have an acquaintance (actually, DS's IEP caseworker from 7th grade) who suffers from Crohn's, as well. It had just been diagnosed about the time we met him, and he began a pretty aggressive IVIG schedule to help combat it. Does that sound integrative to you?

 

I can reach out to him and see if he has any recommendations; we're still in touch with him (DS is very fond of him and stays connected).