Sports Medicine Physician Joins Franciscan in Michigan City
In a significant development for the healthcare community in Michigan City, Dr. Thomas Schmittdiel has joined the Franciscan Physician Network, bringing his expertise in primary care and sports medicine to the region. Dr. Schmittdiel is now accepting new patients at two locations: the Franciscan Physician Network Coolspring Health Center and the Monroe Health Center in La Porte.
Educational Background and Specialization
Dr. Schmittdiel’s journey in medicine began at the University of Missouri School of Medicine, where he laid the foundation for his medical career. Following his medical education, he completed his residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Illinois. To further hone his skills, he pursued a fellowship in sports medicine at Ascension Resurrection in Chicago. This extensive training equips him with the knowledge and experience necessary to address a wide range of health issues, particularly those related to sports and physical activity.
Services Offered
At the Franciscan Physician Network Coolspring Health Center, located at 1225 East Coolspring Ave. in Michigan City, and the Monroe Health Center at 400 Legacy Plaza West in La Porte, Dr. Schmittdiel will provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages. His focus on sports medicine means he will be particularly adept at treating sports-related injuries, offering rehabilitation services, and providing guidance on injury prevention. Patients interested in scheduling an appointment can reach out by calling 219-861-8161.
Community Foundation Awards $105,000
In a commendable effort to support local initiatives, the Porter County Community Foundation (PCCF) has awarded $105,367 in grants to 18 nonprofit organizations as part of its final Community Fund grant cycle of 2024. This funding aims to bolster community programs that address various needs, from arts education to social services.
Beneficiaries of the Grants
The organizations receiving funding include a diverse array of programs, such as the Art Barn School of Art, which received $5,000, and the Duneland Family YMCA, awarded $7,400. Other notable recipients include Dressed for School and Community Change Center: WeAreOne, each receiving $10,000. These grants will enable these organizations to continue their vital work in the community, enhancing the quality of life for residents in Porter County.
The next Community Fund grant cycle will open in January, with an application deadline set for February 15. Interested organizations can find more information on the PCCF website at PCCF.gives.
Internal Medicine Physician Joins Franciscan in Chesterton
In another positive development for healthcare access in the region, Dr. Mohammad Arfeen, an interventional gastroenterology and internal medicine physician, has joined the Franciscan Physician Network. He is now accepting new patients at the Franciscan Emergency Center in Chesterton.
Dr. Arfeen’s Qualifications
Dr. Arfeen’s medical journey began at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pennsylvania. He completed his residency in internal medicine at Franciscan Health Olympia Fields, followed by fellowships in gastroenterology and interventional gastroenterology at the same institution and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, respectively. His extensive training allows him to provide specialized care for gastrointestinal issues, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive treatment tailored to their needs.
Patients can visit Dr. Arfeen at the Franciscan Emergency Center Chesterton, located at 770 Indian Boundary Road. For appointments, call 219-872-6566.
Franciscan Hosting Open Houses in Dyer and Michigan City
Franciscan Health is committed to enhancing the well-being of seniors through its Senior Health & Wellness Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). This fall, the organization is hosting two open houses to provide information about this community-based program, which enables seniors to live independently while receiving comprehensive primary care and specialty services.
Event Details
The first open house is scheduled for October 24 from 4-6 p.m. at Franciscan Health Senior Health & Wellness, located at 301 W. Homer St. in Michigan City. The second event will take place on November 13 from 4-6 p.m. at Franciscan Senior Health & Wellness, 2150 Gettler St., Suite 305, in Dyer. Both events are free, but registration is required. For more information, interested individuals can call 219-264-8761.
Franciscan Awards Nearly $450,000 in Health Improvement Grants
In a remarkable initiative to enhance community health, Franciscan Health has allocated $448,000 in funding to 55 nonprofit organizations across Indiana and Chicago’s south suburbs through its Social Impact Partnership Program (SIPP). This program aims to foster long-term relationships with community providers to address significant health issues among vulnerable populations.
Recipients of the Grants
Organizations benefiting from this funding include NERD Youth Service, TradeWinds Services Inc., and the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana Inc., among others. These grants will support various community health improvement programs, ensuring that the recipient organizations can effectively meet their stated goals. Franciscan’s Community Health Improvement team will collaborate with these organizations to monitor and enhance program effectiveness.
Lincoln Highway Garage Opens in Valparaiso
In a move to improve accessibility and convenience for residents and visitors, Valparaiso has opened the Lincoln Highway Garage, located at the intersection of Lincolnway and Morgan Boulevard. Officially opened on October 9, this new facility offers 360 parking spots, including 152 public spaces and six EV charging spots.
Parking Information
The Lincoln Highway Garage provides free parking for the first three hours, making it an attractive option for those visiting the area. For all-day parking, permits can be purchased at City Hall, although overnight parking between 2-6 a.m. is prohibited, except for residents of Linc. To learn more about the garage and its amenities, visit tinyurl.com/LHG-Valpo.
Conclusion
The recent developments in healthcare and community support in Michigan City and surrounding areas highlight the ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life for residents. With the addition of skilled physicians like Dr. Schmittdiel and Dr. Arfeen, along with significant funding for local nonprofits, the community is poised for a healthier and more vibrant future.