As a full-service medical facility with physicians in 45 medical specialties, MetroSouth Medical Center has the experience, the expertise and the technology to care for our patients in so many ways.
MSMC is nationally recognized for outstanding cardiac care with a state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization lab and electrophysiology lab featuring advanced technology for all interventional procedures. The medical staff is experienced in all cardiac procedures including open heart and coronary and peripheral stenting. MetroSouth also performs cardiac MRI imaging procedures.
Women’s Services
Over the course of their lives, women face a unique set of changes and challenges to their health and well being. From embracing the miracle of childbirth to guarding against the onset of certain conditions, women’s health is about more than just great medical care; it’s about supporting their well-being as they meet the demands of their busy lifestyles. Our comprehensive women’s care, birthing and wellness centers are designed around healing comforts and thoughtful conveniences to help keep the women of our communities going strong.
Women’s Services at MetroSouth include the Women’s Wellness Center, the Family Birth Place and the Women’s Care Unit.
The Women’s Wellness Center
The Women’s Wellness Center at MetroSouth Medical Center provides wellness services that lead to healthier living in a way that’s easy to fit into your busy lifestyle. Located just off the hospital’s main lobby, the Women’s Wellness Center makes the outpatient services you need easily and conveniently available in one place. Our diagnostic, therapeutic and consultative services include:
Bone Density Tests for Osteoporosis
Mammography
Stereotactic and Ultrasound-guided Breast Biopsies
Abdominal, Thyroid and Prenatal Ultrasound
Consultative / Educational Services
Other amenities include free valet parking for patients, available at the main entrance. Visit the Women’s Wellness Center at MetroSouth and see what healthy living is all about.
Women’s Care – Healing Comforts
Women’s Care offers advanced care options in Gynecology, Breast Care and Obstetrics and puts a special focus on relaxing, comforting environments as the key to healing experiences. Whether you have arrived at the Women’s Wellness Center for an outpatient procedure or you are being admitted to the Family Birth Place or Women’s Care, you’ll soon notice that the entire experience has been designed with your comfort in mind.
Our comprehensive care services address health issues affecting women today. Our Obstetrics, Gynecology and Breast Care services cater to women of all ages, and our state-of-the-art facilities offer advanced diagnosis and treatment options for cancer care, osteoporosis, thyroid, pelvic floor disorders and abdominal issues.
The Family Birth Place
The Family Birth Place offers labor/delivery/recovery suites with all the comforts of home. All of the suites in the maternity unit are private, and each suite is attractively appointed to create an exceptional experience for you, your new baby and your family.
As a Level 2+ birthing center, the Family Birth Place is also equipped to safely care for moms and babies that may be at a higher risk, with a full team of board-certified high-risk perinatologists, neonatologists, obstetricians, certified nurse midwives and nurses specializing in advanced fetal monitoring. That means you can feel secure knowing that more complex medical care is available should you need it.
A certified lactation consultant is available to support you if you choose to breast feed your infant. A variety of breast feeding supplies are available for purchase or rental in the department. We also offer a discharge class for new moms to help them prepare to go home with their newborn.
Post-Partum
After delivery, you and your new baby will spend the remainder of your hospital stay in your own private room - bonding, learning and getting ready to go home. We believe the more you learn about caring for both yourself and your new baby while at the Family Birth Place, the better prepared you will be when you return home.
Special Care/Newborn Care Nursery
Our Level 2+ Nursery provides care for newborns with special needs. Staffed with board-certified Neonatologists, highly skilled nurses, and respiratory therapists, your baby will receive the quality care he or she needs.
Certified Nurse Midwives
In partnership with Near North Health Services, MetroSouth offers a midwifery program to our patients. Certified nurse midwives emphasize a “low-tech, high touch” approach and treat your baby’s birth as a natural event. Midwives focus on individualized care and are particularly sensitive to the physical, emotional and social well-being of the mother and her extended family throughout the birthing process.
State-of-the-Art Security System
You can rest comfortably knowing MetroSouth’s facilities are completely secure, with a state-of-the-art infant security system featuring closed circuit video monitoring and pass-code protected access. The significant other, identified by the mother, will be provided a matching identification band that matches mother and baby and allows for 24-hour access and visitation.
Breast Pump Station
Breast pumps are available for rental or purchase. Bras and other maternity products are for sale at the lactation office adjacent to The Family Birthing Center.
Take a Tour
Families are invited to tour the Family Birth Place. Become familiar with the surroundings and receive helpful information for a comfortable stay at MetroSouth. The tour is approximately one hour in length and FREE of charge. Moms-to-be will be able to pre-register for their hospital stay at the end of the tour.
For more information, call 708-597-2000 ext 7926.
Childbirth Classes
At the Family Birth Place at MetroSouth Medical Center, we believe the birth of your baby is a family event. While every birth offers unique challenges, experience shows that preparation is the best way to create a positive birth experience for mother, baby and family. The Family Birth Place offers a comprehensive range of classes and workshops that help the whole family be part of, and prepare both for pregnancy and the birth and care of the baby. Call the Family Birthplace to learn about upcoming classes.
Contact Women’s Services
Women’s Wellness Center 708-597-2000, ext. 7701
The Family Birth Place 708-597-2000, ext. 5572
Women’s Care Unit 708-597-2000, ext.5572
Surgical Services
Surgical services include same-day and minimally invasive surgery, orthopedic, cardiac, neurological, vascular, urology, thoracic, podiatry, gynecology, plastic/cosmetic, ophthalmology, ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) and pain management.
24-Hour Emergency Services
If you have a medical emergency, please dial 911
MetroSouth is committed to providing the best possible emergency care to Chicago’s South Side and the surrounding communities. Emergency Care is for people who are critically ill or seriously injured. Our emergency care facility has special equipment and supplies to treat these patients that non-emergency facilities may not.
The Emergency Department is state-of-the-art and staffed with a team of highly skilled physicians, nurses and support staff with access to the latest monitoring systems and diagnostic equipment to streamline care, expedite diagnosis, and oversee treatment. The Fast Track area evaluates and treats minor illnesses without having to wait behind more complicated cases.
MetroSouth Medical Center has an agreement with Trace Ambulance Service and ATI Ambulance to bring pregnant women to MetroSouth Medical Center to deliver their babies. If you are in labor and call 911 to pick you up, please keep in mind that may be taken to the hospital nearest to your home to deliver your baby.
Trace Ambulance (Suburbs) – (708) 532-0088
ATI Ambulance (Chicago) – (888) 802-8101
Common Medical Emergencies
Heart Attacks
Strokes
Burn Injuries
Poisonings and Severe Allergic Reactions
Sports and Work Related Injuries
Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries
Physical Violence Injuries
Emotional / Psychological Distress
Rehabilitation Services
MetroSouth Medical Center provides comprehensive Rehabilitation Services, partnering with patients and their physicians to develop and implement a plan that helps each patient realize their optimum level of health. We serve patients with a wide range of physical disabilities from simple sprains to more traumatic injuries through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech language pathology.
Our experienced team of rehabilitative therapists understand how challenging these experiences can be, both physically and emotionally; they work with each patient to strengthen their physical and functional abilities and help them achieve their best possible health and quality of life.
MetroSouth Rehabilitation and Amputee Clinic
The MetroSouth Rehabilitation and Amputee Clinic is a specialized program for the evaluation, treatment and rehabilitation of individuals who due to a medical condition, trauma or occupational hazard resulted in physical impairment or limb loss. Our team works with individuals to adapt both physically and emotionally to significant changes in lifestyle, and help them achieve their optimal mobility and quality of life. Families are a crucial part of the rehabilitation process, and we encourage them to participate in process whenever possible. The open-to-the-public clinic meets in the MetroSouth Medical Center Rehabilitation Department on the Mezzanine level on the first Wednesday of every month starting at 1 pm.
Dr. Mark Tracy, an experienced Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physician, oversees all patients' evaluation and care. During evaluation, he may recommend a combination of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Orthotics (braces) and Prosthetics (artificial limbs) as part of your treatment plan. Unlike other clinics, we partner each patient with a therapist for the entire program, from the initial evaluation to monitoring your ongoing progress. This means that regardless of the ups and downs you may experience, you can rely on your therapist and our extensive team being there to support you every step of the way.
The MetroSouth Amputee Clinic is a specialized program for the evaluation, treatment and rehabilitation of individuals that have undergone a limb loss. Our team works with individuals to adapt both physically and emotionally to significant changes in lifestyle, and help them achieve their optimal quality of life. Families are a crucial part of the rehabilitation process, and we encourage them to participate in process whenever possible.
During evaluation, we assemble our multi-disciplinary team of physicians, physical and occupational therapists, and prosthetics to collaborate with you and your family in the development of your treatment plan. But unlike other clinics, we also partner each patient with a therapist for the entire program, from the initial evaluation to monitoring your ongoing progress. This means that regardless of the ups and downs you may experience, you can rely on your therapist and our extensive team being there to support you every step of the way.
Radiology Services -Diagnostic Imaging Services
The Diagnostic Imaging Services at MetroSouth offers a full spectrum of diagnostic invasive, non-invasive, and intra-operative procedures to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions. Besides providing current radiological technologies, our experienced board –certified physicians, radiologists and technicians make every effort to assure your comfort and privacy during these procedures.
The newest addition to our Radiology Department, PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System), is a computer network that allows for storage, distribution and viewing of digital images. PACS replaces the use of x-ray film and also aids in providing faster results to you and your physician, which improves the time from diagnosis to initiating treatment.
Diagnostic Radiography
Our Radiology Department provides a full range of radiography services, from x-rays to fluoroscopic and angiographic test capable of evaluating organs and internal structures in real-time.
CT Scanning
Computer Tomography (CT) is a non-invasive procedure using a computer to compile a series of x-ray “slices” to create 3-dimensional images of the patient’s body to diagnose a variety of medical conditions.
Ultrasound Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to produce anatomical images. Because ultrasound uses no radiation, this safe and painless procedure is commonly used to make an assessment during pregnancy and other conditions.
MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive procedure that assists in diagnosing soft tissue damage in three dimensions, from muscle injuries to concussions. Our capabilities include performing breast studies utilizing a 1.5 Tesla magnet.
Mammography Mammography is a non-invasive procedure that takes x-ray images of each breast. Recommended for women over 40 and younger women with a family history of breast cancer, regular screenings are an important part of early detection. Interventional mammography procedures are also provided.
Bone Densitometry This non-invasive test focuses an x-ray beam on the hip, spine or forearm to measure bone density and determine risk or diagnosis of osteoporosis. Patients at greater risk should be establish a baseline by age 45 to better gauge onset of osteoporosis.
Nuclear Medicine Through safe and painless radioactive and biologically-active tracers, certain tissue types are targeted and aids in the early detection of medical conditions such as cancer or thyroid disease.
PET/CT Scan
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is used to create powerful images of the human body’s biological functions. PET can be combined with Computer Tomography (CT) imaging to create exceptionally detailed images of the smallest of tumors that would otherwise be undetected.
Interventional Radiology Interventional Radiology aids in providing minimally-invasive surgery and real-time imaging. This technique is commonly used for vascular procedures which require the use of catheters. Other procedures such as tissue biopsies to diagnose tumors can be performed.
Neurology - Neurodiagnostic Services
Neurodiagnostic Services at MetroSouth Medical Center performs EMG and EEG procedures on an inpatient and an outpatient basis. Neurodiagnostics study electrical activity in the brain and throughout the nervous system and are critical tools in helping physicians diagnose and treat certain conditions.
Our fully trained neurodiagnostic technicians work with the neurologists and follow the guidelines of the American Society of Electroneurodiagnostic Technicians (ASET). Tests are administered by technicians and supervised and reviewed by neurodiagnostic physicians.
Electromyogram (EMG)
This test evaluates the electrical impulses that activate and control the patient’s muscles. It is used to determine the cause of conditions associated with disease or injury of the nerves, muscles, and spinal cord.
Electroencephalogram (EEG)
This test gives important information about the health and function of the brain. Evoked Potential (EP) tests are a type of EEG which measure brain activity in response to certain stimuli, such as light or sound. These tests are commonly used to diagnose conditions such as epilepsy, brain injury, head ache, stroke, and seizure disorders
Sleep Center
Sleep Study Lab is specially designed for patients experiencing obstructive sleep apnea, or are experiencing other sleep disorders requiring intensive study.
The Sleep Center at MetroSouth Medical Center features clean, comfortable suites, state of the art facility and diagnostic equipment. Our Sleep Center is staffed by some of the most experienced Board-Certified Sleep Specialists in the nation, who have been serving Chicago’s South Side communities since 1990. Our polysomnographic technicians are experienced in diagnostic, therapeutic and split night sleep studies along with Multiple Latency Testing (MLT) and Multiple Wake Test (MWT).
Diagnosing a Disorder
To properly diagnose a sleep disorder, it is necessary to observe the patient during a typical period of rest. During sleep a patient’s brain waves, eye movements, muscle tone, limb movement, heart activity, oxygen level and breathing are monitored remotely by our experienced technicians to detect any irregularities. After evaluating the results, our board-certified Sleep Disorder Specialists share their diagnosis and recommended treatment options with the patient.
Common Sleep Disorders include:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Central Sleep Apnea
Snoring
Insomnia
Narcolepsy
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Respiratory Care
The Respiratory Care staff at MetroSouth Medical Center is highly experienced in monitoring, diagnosing, and treating COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), Asthma, Diffuse Tissue Disease, and other conditions relating to the cardio-pulmonary system. Our medical staff includes physicians, practitioners, therapists and others who educate patients as they provide care and contribute to the development of comprehensive patient care plans.
Pulmonary Function Testing
Physicians use Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) to assess how well your lungs are functioning and to determine what treatment may be appropriate for you. Pulmonary function tests are important because they help physicians diagnose a variety of lung and breathing problems, such as asthma. The test also helps determine a surgical patient’s need for respiratory support during and after a scheduled operation.
Spirometry - This is the standard breathing test used to diagnose and monitor lung problems.
Complete Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) - a PFT also measures total lung volumes and diffusion.
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG)- This test is used to evaluate how well the lungs transfer oxygen into the blood and take carbon dioxide out of the blood.
The Endoscopy Laboratory aids in the diagnosis and treatment of ulcers, stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, cancers of the gastrointestinal (G.I.) system, gastric reflux and other gastroenterology conditions. The G.I. system compromises the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, anal canal, ending at the anus.
The Endoscopy Laboratory aids in the diagnosis and treatment of ulcers, stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, cancers of the gastrointestinal (G.I.) system, gastric reflux and other gastroenterology conditions. The gastrointestinal system includes the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, anal canal and ends at the anus.
Endoscopy
The endoscopy is the insertion of a flexible light scope to view the upper and lower gastrointestinal tracts. During this examination, the physician will be able to have direct visualization of the gastrointestinal tract. These images are viewed on a video monitor with ability to take pictures. With direct visualization, forceps can be passed through a specific channel to obtain biopsies, remove polyps, remove foreign bodies, control bleeding and open strictures.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (E.G.D.)
The E.G.D. is an upper endoscopic procedure or is usually done to help diagnose symptoms of persistent upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or difficulty swallowing. This examine is more accurate than an x-ray in testing for inflammation, ulcers and tumors of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Evidence of GERD (gastric esophageal reflux disease) can also be viewed and diagnosed.
Colonoscopy
The colonoscopy, or lower endoscopy, is the examination of the large colon to the end of the small intestine. This examine allows a direct visualization to view inflamed tissue, diverticulosis, polyps, masses, and internal and external hemorrhoids.
A colonoscopy for colon cancer screening is recommended at the age of 50. If there is a family history of colon cancer, a colonoscopy should be preformed at an earlier age. A colonoscopy may be indicated if a person experiences any changes with bowel habits or if there is presence of blood in the stool.
Colorectal cancer is the nations’ second leading cancer killer. It is more than 90% preventable if caught early and potentially cancerous polyps are removed. Even though the disease is highly preventable, fewer than half of all Americans over 50 get tested.
The motto of the Endoscopy Department at MetroSouth Medical Center is Preventable-Treatable- Beatable. The Endoscopy staff hopes to serve all of you in the near future.
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