IU Health North Hospital

10/15/2025

The Atrio Café is one of the most active spaces at IU Health North Hospital, serving as a daily destination for patients, team members and visitors seeking a meal or a moment of connection.

Among the familiar faces in the Atrio is Austin Evans, a cashier known for his welcoming presence and upbeat attitude.

Evans has been with IU Health for a year and a half, bringing a strong background in retail with him. What sets this role apart for him is the people.

“I prefer being a cashier here because I'm helping patients. They’re a bit cheerier after I help them out,” he says.

Evans also speaks highly of the camaraderie he shares with his team.

“Here, we have each other's backs and always joke around. It's great coming to a role where you're just happy all the time,” he explains.

Looking ahead, Evans sees a future for himself at IU Health North.

“I do enjoy coming here every day. I like the growth opportunities that are offered here,” he says. “I can always advance through IU Health itself, if I’d like.”

10/09/2025

Melanie Reed’s passion for helping people led her into pharmaceutical medicine. Starting out as a pharmacy intern for IU Health Arnett Hospital in 2014, Reed has worked her way up to becoming a pharmacy manager at IU Health North Hospital.

In the Retail Pharmacy, pharmacists fill prescriptions for not only patients, but for team members and the public as well. Reed helps to educate patients on correct dosage, potential side effects and proper use of medicines.

Reed appreciates not just her fellow team members, but everyone at the hospital.

“I love that the whole hospital and every team member you talk to just feels like we're a big family. Everyone wants to help everyone else, and everyone always has a smile on their face,” she says.

Reed also loves meeting different patients, visitors and team members at the Retail Pharmacy.

“Every day is different. We always see different people and different things come up. I like that there's variety,” she explains.

09/30/2025

Tonya Lee is a familiar face in the Women’s Diagnostics department at IU Health North Hospital. For three years, she has been working as a patient registration specialist, helping patients register for mammograms, ultrasounds and other diagnostics for women’s health.

Lee ensures that patients feel comfortable when they walk in.

“I am the first person that the patients see. I get them registered for their service and talk to them. I’ll have a good conversation with them, so they won't be overwhelmed about their service or visit,” she says.

She also loves seeing patients be proactive with their health.

“I like seeing patients that come to protect their health, because they're concerned about their health,” she says. “We are here for their health and to help them to understand that. Our patients are not in it alone.”

09/24/2025

Newborn screening is a quick and essential test done after the first day of life. With just a small heel prick, healthcare providers can identify serious medical conditions early, often before any signs are visible.

At IU Health North Hospital, registered nurses and patient care assistants help perform these vital tests in the Postpartum unit. Afterwards, the results are sent off to a lab to be tested for various health conditions.

Melinda Greer, manager of clinical operations for IU Health North Hospital’s Postpartum unit, says that early detection is key.

“Newborn screening looks for serious developmental, genetic and metabolic disorders. Although rare, such diseases are treatable if caught early,” she explains.

Identifying an illness at birth can lead to effective management of the condition and its symptoms. Newborn screening helps families and providers take proactive steps toward lifelong health.

Pictured: Registered nurse Ali Howard performs the screening on a patient

09/17/2025

Kenneth Hicks serves as a patient registration specialist in the Radiology department at IU Health North Hospital. He welcomes patients arriving for ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT) scans, electrocardiograms (EKGs), X-rays, and other imaging services.

With more than 17 years at IU Health North—10 of those in Radiology—Hicks is known for his dedication to patient care and teamwork.

Hicks says connecting with patients is what keeps him inspired.

“I've been here so long because I'm able to make an impact on the patients. Some of them come in nervous and don't know what to expect. I just smile at them and try to put them at ease,” Hicks says.

09/14/2025

After a challenging two-year journey of chemotherapy, surgery, radiation and rehabilitation, Tiffany Darring is now cancer-free. She credits recovery to her faith, resilience, and the dedicated care team at IU Health North and the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center.

“I’m glad I came to IU Health North. But it’s also about having a support system, having faith, and following the protocols the doctors give you,” she says, “I’m so grateful for everyone at IU Health who helped me. Every single person was so supportive, and I hope they know they made a difference in my journey.”

After a challenging two-year journey of chemotherapy, surgery, radiation and rehabilitation, Tiffany Darring is now cancer-free.

09/10/2025

Bolt for the Heart and IU Health North Hospital are taking steps to keep those visiting Hamilton County parks safe.

This September, IU Health North, Bolt for the Heart and several other community partners gathered at Coxhall Gardens to celebrate the installation of a new outdoor, 24/7 AED SaveStation.

The SaveStation houses a Zoll G5 Automated External Defibrillator (AED), which guides users step by step through life-saving measures during a sudden cardiac emergency. The equipment ensures quick access to life-saving technology for thousands of park visitors each year.

The project came together through the partnership of IU Health North, Bolt for the Heart, Current Publishing, the City of Carmel and Hamilton County Parks and Recreation.

“When a heart event occurs, every second matters,” says Sarah Clemens (pictured in second photo), Cardiovascular service line director of IU Health Fishers, North and West hospitals. “By placing AEDs in the hands of those who are often first on the scene, we can save lives and greatly improve outcomes for patients. IU Health is proud to support Bolt for the Heart in making this life-saving resource more accessible to our community.”

“We are honored to be part of this important donation,” says Pierre Twer, president of Bolt for the Heart. “Having an AED on site will protect the many families, walkers and community members who enjoy this park every day.”

The addition of the SaveStation was welcomed by Hamilton County Parks leadership.

“Every day, our parks bring people together to connect with nature, explore, and create lasting memories,” says Chris Stice, director of Hamilton County Parks and Recreation. “Thanks to IU Health and Bolt for the Heart, Coxhall Gardens now has an AED and SaveStation—ensuring that if the unexpected happens, we have the tools to help when it matters most. We are truly grateful for this life-saving addition to the park.”

The Coxhall Gardens installation is part of Bolt for the Heart’s broader initiative to build “Save Ready” communities across Indiana, with AEDs placed in parks, trails, and other high-traffic public spaces where quick response can mean the difference between life and death.

09/08/2025

IU Health North and Fishers team members are taking their mission to help others outside hospital walls. The hospitals completed their 17th annual Days of Service Friday at Cool Creek Park in Carmel. Team members volunteered their time to work on several projects, including improvements to the Nature Play Area.

Days of Service is an IU Health volunteer effort each year for all team members across the state to come together and make a difference in the communities IU Health serves.

Caitlin Vendely, a Community Outreach consultant for IU Health’s Metro Region, helped organize the event.

“Our annual Days of Service give IU Health team members a chance to truly invest in the community beyond our facilities,” she explains. “By revitalizing local parks, we’re creating inviting spaces that promote active lifestyles and contribute to a healthier Hamilton County.”

This is one of multiple Days of Service projects team members are completing this year. Some of the other volunteer opportunities include a Habitat for Humanity build, community blood pressure screenings and assembling meal kits.

Thank you to Hamilton County Parks and Recreation for helping to make the day a success!

09/04/2025

When you need care for non-life threatening injury or illness, IU Health Urgent Care is available (even on weekends and evenings). Make sure you are getting the right care at the right time—and at the lowest cost—by knowing where to go.

When you need care, we’re ready for you:
iuhealth.org/get-care-now

09/03/2025

DeOndray Pope is six months post-bariatric surgery and says he can feel the difference in his body and his life. Pope knew he wanted to make healthier choices by the time he reached the age of 40. At his heaviest, he was 715 pounds. Pope connected with the Bariatric Surgery team at IU Health North and Dr. Dimitrios Stefanidis, a surgeon with the program.

Now, Pope is noticing major differences. At his most recent appointment, he weighed 440 pounds. He is looking forward to participating in the TREO Foundation’s The Walk, which will be hosted at IU Health North on Saturday, Sept. 13. The event funds research, education and access to treatment to combat obesity.

“I’m looking forward to interacting with more individuals who have gone through the process and support the cause in general,” Pope says. “I want to complete the entire thing because now I have the energy to do it.”

DeOndray Pope transformed his health through bariatric surgery at IU Health North, losing over 275 pounds in six months and gaining confidence to embrace life.

08/27/2025

A patient’s post-surgery experience plays a vital role in their recovery. On IU Health North’s 5C Medical-Surgical unit, Madison Charleswood, registered nurse, is committed to delivering exceptional care with empathy and professionalism.

Since joining IU Health North just over a year ago, Charleswood has found a strong sense of belonging among her team. The supportive environment has helped her transition smoothly from college to clinical practice.

“Everybody on our floor is honestly amazing. That's made the easiest transition from post-grad, because everybody here is so nice and willing to help,” she explains.

Typically, Charleswood cares for four to six patients per day, assisting with morning medications, conducting assessments and responding to individual needs. She also serves as a charge nurse during some shifts, coordinating patient assignments, room placements and nurse scheduling.

Charleswood was drawn to the unit after experiencing the patient-side of care when a close loved one was in the hospital.

“I got to see the patient care side of things and how nursing plays a vital role in direct care. With nursing, you get to be bedside, assist patients for the full 12-hour shift and help them with all the little things that you don't think about. It's nice to provide that comfort,” Charleswood says.

Do you want to make a difference in patients’ lives and grow in a supportive environment? Visit careers.iuhealth.org to view open job positions.

08/20/2025

IU Health North nationally recognized for commitment to high-quality stroke care—

IU Health North Hospital has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability.

Stroke is the fifth-highest cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so brain cells die. Early stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery times.

Get With The Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest research- and evidence-based guidelines. Get With The Guidelines - Stroke is an in-hospital program for improving stroke care by promoting consistent adherence to these guidelines, which can minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death.

“IU Health North Hospital is committed to improving patient care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” says Susanne Crotty, Stroke Clinical and Quality coordinator. “Get With The Guidelines makes it easier for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which studies show can help patients recover better. The end goal is to ensure more people in our service area around Carmel can experience longer, healthier lives.”

Each year, program participants qualify for the award by demonstrating how their organization has committed to providing quality care for stroke patients. In addition to following treatment guidelines, Get With The Guidelines participants also educate patients to help them manage their health and recovery at home.

“We are incredibly pleased to recognize IU Health North Hospital for its commitment to caring for patients with stroke,” says Steven Messe, MD, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association Stroke System of Care Advisory Group. “Participation in Get With The Guidelines is associated with improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates—a win for health care systems, families and communities.”

IU Health North also received the American Heart Association’s Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll Elite award. To qualify for this recognition, hospitals must meet specific criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with thrombolytic therapy.

The hospital has also met specific scientific guidelines as a Primary Stroke Center, featuring a comprehensive system for rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients admitted to the emergency department. IU Health North has been certified as a primary stroke center since 2019.

Pictured from left to right: Kristi Curry, supervisor of Imaging Services; Manpreet Kaur, Emergency department registered nurse; Susanne Crotty, Stroke Clinical and Quality coordinator; Kaci Elliott, critical care registered nurse; Amber Hinton, clinical nurse specialist; Ashley Bridges, 5B unit co-manager; Sam Bonvillian, 5B unit co-manager; Lindsey Hardesty, Imaging Services specialist.