McLaren Northern Michigan

09/26/2025

09/25/2025

Get ready for a more comfortable mammogram! At the McLaren Greater Lansing Breast Imaging Center, we've elevated your experience with the use of Soft-Touch Mammography and a curved paddle. This innovative technology is designed to reduce the discomfort often associated with traditional mammograms, making the process less stressful for you.

Schedule your mammogram appointment with us today by calling 1-800-McLaren

09/24/2025

Welcome to the McLaren Northern Michigan family, Dr. Alexander Doubek!

We're thrilled to introduce our newest Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation physician specializing in interventional spine and musculoskeletal medicine.

Dr. Doubek, a native of Northern Michigan, is bringing specialized expertise back home to serve our community. After completing his fellowship at Cleveland Clinic, he's ready to help patients overcome chronic pain and get back to doing what they love.

From epidural injections to radiofrequency ablation, Dr. Doubek offers the most advanced minimally invasive treatments for spine-related pain, musculoskeletal conditions, and nerve disorders - all right here close to home.

Fun fact: When he's not helping patients, you might find Dr. Doubek fishing (he's earned multiple Michigan Master Angler Awards!), rock climbing, or even riding a unicycle!

Dr. Doubek is now accepting new patients!

https://www.mclaren.org/main/locations/rehabilitation-and-therapy-petoskey-736

09/23/2025

Feeling that scratchy throat turn painful? Strep throat can sneak up fast and throw off your entire day. With McLarenNow, help is always just a click away. Skip the waiting room and connect with a trusted health care provider 24/7 from your phone, tablet, or computer. Get the answers, treatment, and prescriptions if needed without leaving your home.

Don’t let strep throat slow you down, get care when and where you need it. Learn more at https://mclarenhealthcare.org/44rGHV8.

09/23/2025

While pain is a natural part of the healing process after an illness, injury, or surgery, it can become a condition in its own right. Learn about the five common types of pain and when you should seek intervention.

While pain is a natural part of the healing process after an illness, injury, or surgery, it can become a condition in its own right. This can happen when the pain becomes more intense or lasts longer than expected, or when it has no clear cause. When pain gets to that point, it requires its own spe...

09/19/2025

WHAT'S GOING AROUND?— Each week, we ask our ER physicians what ailments and conditions are commonly being seen in our Emergency Room.

THIS WEEK, Dr. Matthew Steck, a McLaren emergency physician, reports:

Viral infections
There continues to be a rise in the occurrence of mostly school-aged children being treated for viral infections, with symptoms of congestion, cough, and runny nose, with some patients diagnosed with strep throat.

Injuries
Sports-related injuries among youth athletes continue to be treated in high volumes within the trauma center.

Gastroenteritis
While not yet being diagnosed and treated in the anticipated volumes during the traditional cold and flu season, there continues to be a low but steady volume of patients with gastroenteritis.

09/17/2025

This summer, undergraduate students, graduate trainees and faculty from Wayne State University, Michigan State University and the Van Andel Institute gathered for a day of collaboration and mentorship for the Inaugural Summer Undergraduate Research Experience Meetup, in partnership with the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute!

This summer, undergraduate students, graduate trainees and faculty gathered in the Margherio Conference Room on Wayne State University’s (WSU) campus for a memorable day of collaboration, mentorship and inspiration. The Inaugural Summer Undergraduate Research Experience Meetup, in partnership with...

09/17/2025

⏰ REMINDER: Free Prostate Cancer Screening Tomorrow, Thursday, September 18th

Men ages 40-79: Don't miss this opportunity for early detection. A simple blood test could make all the difference.

📍 McLaren Northern Michigan
🕐 Call now to reserve your spot: (231) 487-4209 ext. 3.

Early detection saves lives. Take the first step toward protecting your health.

Learn more about prostate screening: https://mclarenhealthcare.org/4mlLWOE

Among American men, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death after lung cancer. While early detection can make a significant difference, the decision to begin screening isn’t always straightforward and should involve a conversation ...

09/11/2025

09/11/2025

Early detection saves lives. Don't wait – get your free prostate cancer screening this Thursday, September 18th from 4 - 8 p.m. at the Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Northern Michigan.

✅ Quick & Easy: Simple blood test and screening, results in 2 weeks
✅ No Cost: Completely FREE screening
✅ Expert Care: From Michigan's largest cancer care network
✅ Ages 40-79: With or without symptoms

⏰ Appointments Required: Call (231) 487-4209 ext. 3 to reserve your spot.

Take charge of your health – 15 minutes could make all the difference 💙

09/10/2025

“A TIA is a term used to describe stroke-like symptoms that last less than 24 hours and do not leave an impression on the MRI brain,” said Dr. Guminik. “A TIA is a warning sign for a stroke.”

This is a wake-up call to improve your lifestyle. By focusing on key lifestyle changes and managing your risk factors, you can dramatically reduce your chances of a future stroke. Read more about how you can improve your health after a TIA.

You want to talk, but the words won’t come out right. You go to call someone, but the phone is blurred and you feel dizzy. These are all symptoms of a transient ischemic attack (TIA), more commonly known as a “mini-stroke.” “Symptoms of a TIA or a stroke can include one-sided numbness, weakn...

09/08/2025

In partnership with local EMS and Fire Department first responders, McLaren Oakland recently conducted a full-scale decontamination exercise to enhance disaster preparedness. The drill simulated a multi-vehicle accident on I-75 involving a tanker spill with hazardous exposure, requiring coordinated response and patient decontamination.

Hospital staff, EMS crews, and community partners worked together to practice Code Triage activation, patient triage, decontamination procedures, and security/media management. Volunteer patients and residents participated to create realistic scenarios, including respiratory distress, chemical exposure, and neurological compromise.

The exercise strengthened collaboration between hospital teams and first responders, identified areas for improvement, and reinforced our commitment to community safety and emergency readiness.

09/06/2025

It is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a time to talk to the men you love about their risks, warning signs, and screening. Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Flint medical oncologist Dr. Sandeep Grewal spoke with WNEM TV5 this week about prostate cancer and the treatment options.

09/04/2025

Dr. Nicolas J. Mouawad, a vascular surgeon with McLaren Bay Region and the hospital’s chief of vascular & endovascular surgery and chair of its department of surgery, has again been recognized for his proficiency and exceptional care, earning a rank among the top 30 vascular surgeons in the country, according to Newsweek’s America’s Leading Doctors – Vascular Surgery 2025.

Great job, Dr. Mouawad, and thank you for your dedication to our community!

Dr. Nicolas J. Mouawad, a vascular surgeon with McLaren Bay Region and the hospital’s chief of vascular & endovascular surgery and chair of its department of surgery, has again been recognized for his proficiency and exceptional care, earning a rank among the top 30 vascular surgeons in the co...

09/02/2025

Meet McLaren Greater Lansing's therapy dog team!

Cali - a 4-year-old Cavapoo (King Charles Cavalier and poodle mix), with a gentle, cuddly personality who loves brightening everyone's day.
Jasper- a 6-year-old Aussiedoodle full of charm and energy, already known for lifting spirits around the hospital.
Scout- a 4-year-old Golden Retriever whose loyal and loving nature makes him the perfect comfort companion.

We're excited to welcome all three of them to the McLaren Greater Lansing family!

McLaren Greater Lansing has launched a pet therapy program, and leading the way is a very special pup. Jasper, a 6-year-old “Aussiedoodle” (Australian shepherd and poodle mix), visits the hospital every Tuesday with his handler, David Wilson. Jasper has been a certified therapy dog for four year...

08/29/2025

Thirty nursing students from Mott Community College and the University of Michigan Flint have an extra $1,500 to use towards their education. The McLaren Flint Foundation awarded the Rachor Nursing scholarships last week in Ballenger Auditorium. The scholarships were started by former patient Michael Rachor. He was so impressed with the care he received at McLaren, he wanted to give back by helping support the future of great nursing care.

08/25/2025

Welcome to the McLaren Northern Michigan Family, Dr. Ryan Ber!

We're thrilled to introduce our newest Interventional Cardiologist at McLaren Heart & Vascular Institute in Petoskey!

Dr. Ber brings advanced expertise in minimally invasive treatments for coronary artery disease, blood clots, and blocked arteries - expanding our leading-edge cardiac care right here in Northern Michigan.

Dr. Ber chose our beautiful region for both its natural beauty and the opportunity to serve our tight-knit community. With his extensive training from Temple University Hospital and Henry Ford Health, he's dedicated to communication, shared decision-making, and keeping patients informed every step of the way.

When he's not caring for patients, you might find Dr. Ber hiking our trails, skiing our slopes, or enjoying a round of golf!

Welcome to Northern Michigan, Dr. Ber! 💙

08/23/2025

Great news, Michigan families! McLaren Health Care now accepts Meridian, Molina, UnitedHealthcare, and other Medicaid plans at all 12 hospitals and clinics statewide — making it easier than ever to get the care you need, close to home. https://mclarenhealthcare.org/4lCMxea

08/21/2025

WOW! 890 boxes (13lbs each!) of fresh, local produce packed and delivered by Coveyou Scenic Farm Market and our incredible farm partners. Thank you for going above and beyond for our McLaren team and their families! 🙌💚

08/21/2025

Our Harvesting Health initiative is in full swing, bringing fresh, local produce directly to McLaren Northern Michigan staff! 🍎🥦🌽

From July to October, our team enjoys seasonal picks from Bear Creek Organic Farm, Coveyou Scenic Farm Market, Interwater Farms Inc, King Orchards, K&K Farms, Providence Farm & CSA.

We're grateful to the donors who make this program possible through gifts to McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation. Their support helps us invest in our employees' health and our local farming community.

08/21/2025

Every baby's journey is unique-and there's no one "right" way to do it. Whether you breastfeed, pump, use formula, or a mix, what matters most is that your baby is loved, fed, and thriving.

Feeding your baby is a deeply personal journey. For some, breastfeeding feels natural right away. For others, it can be a struggle—or not the right choice at all. Whether you breastfeed, pump, use formula, or combine methods, what matters most is that your baby is fed and your family feels support...

08/20/2025

Kicking off The Ally Challenge presented by McLaren week with inspiration!

The 4th Annual McLaren Adaptive Golf Clinic showcased a fantastic day celebrating the enthusiasm for sports and the athletes who keep redefining what is possible!

08/15/2025

McLaren Health Care now offers convenient online reservations for lab work. New locations have been added, making it easier than ever to schedule your visit.

Book your lab appointment today, or see additional lab locations at https://mclarenhealthcare.org/45HGhgy.