IU Health West Hospital

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IU Health West Hospital

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www.iuhealth.org/west ~ IU Health West Hospital is a healing sanctuary, where caregivers and cutting-edge technology meet in a natural setting.

The IU Health West Hospital Difference
Patients see and feel the difference the moment they walk in the door. The use of natural materials and colors, peaceful garden views, cheerful natural light and soft, healing music set a soothing tone, establishing IU Health West Hospital as a place where patients can set aside stressful distractions and focus on what's important: getting well. IU Health West Hospital's team of caregivers further patients' sense of a healing sanctuary by working to build a sense of trust and rapport with patients, thereby making patients active partners in their healthcare experience, and allowing them to feel a sense of control, understanding and peace of mind. Think of every hospital experience you have had, and then push your expectations aside. IU Health West Hospital strives to exceed your expectations in every way, and provide patient care second to none. IU Health West Hospital was designed with "on-stage" and "off-stage" corridors and elevators to keep public and visitor movement through the hospital separate from the movement of patients, materials, staff and supplies. Hence, the "day-to-day" operations that go into running a hospital are kept out of the publicly-traveled areas, allowing for a more peaceful, serene and home-like environment. As just one example, Emergency Servies at IU Health West features private treatment spaces and separate waiting areas for adult and pediatric emergencies. IU Health West Hospital considers patients' privacy and dignity of the utmost importance. Therefore, in Emergency Services at IU Health West you will find no curtains separating patients - exam rooms are spacious, and have actual doors shielding patients from the bustling corridors outside their treatment room. Small waiting "nooks" throughout the hospital are designed to help families find cozy, private space away from the bedside for conversation and quiet time. It doesn't stop there - IU Health West Hospital's grounds feature many gardens and quiet courtyards, ponds and walking trails, perfect for conversation, relaxation and rejuvenation. Indiana University Health West Hospital does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. For further information about this policy, contact Linda Ryser, Patient Liaison, at 317.217.3183.

10/16/2026

Finding strength and support after breast cancer surgery -

For Lisa Keirn, recovery after breast cancer surgery has involved more than medical appointments. It has meant regaining movement, managing swelling in her left arm and leaning on a care team that supported her every step of the way.

When Keirn learned she had breast cancer and would need biopsies and possible surgery, a nurse practitioner recommended IU Health for her care. She connected with Dr. Tahereh Soleimani, a breast surgeon at IU Health West, and despite living in Terre Haute, she was willing to make the drive to Avon.

“It was a lot easier for me to get to IU Health West than downtown,” Keirn says. “Once I met with her, I knew my preference was to have Dr. Soleimani do the surgery.”

Before surgery, Dr. Soleimani referred Keirn to Natalie Buck, a physical therapist at IU Health West who specializes in caring for patients with breast cancer. Buck introduced exercises to help prepare Keirn for treatment and recovery.

Keirn's first surgery was April 15. After doctors found significant lymph-node involvement, she underwent a second surgery on May 19 to remove additional lymph nodes. Soon after, she developed mild swelling in her left arm and was referred back to Buck to help manage her risk of lymphedema, a condition caused by a buildup of lymph fluid.

“Signs of upper extremity or breast lymphedema are tightness of the skin, heaviness of the breast or upper extremities and clothing fitting tighter,” Buck explains. “Lisa progressed well and quickly from the start. We were able to loosen up her chest wall and axillary area quickly, so her motion returned to normal within two to three weeks.”

Once her mobility improved, Buck focused on helping Keirn manage lymphedema and maintain daily function.

“The relationship with Natalie has been very encouraging, rewarding and supportive,” Keirn says. “She was a great resource for me.”

Buck also brings a personal perspective to her work.

“I have a passion for treating all cancer patients because I am a cancer survivor,” she says. “I had my treatments and surgery at IU Health West, and I personally know the struggles and the daunting undertaking it is to face cancer and all that comes with it. I feel strongly about providing great care to these patients and doing all I can to make them feel better and ease the pain that cancer brings.”

That shared experience resonated with Keirn.

“It is very cool to find out that your care provider has been through similar things and understands the emotions and the questions,” she says.

Keirn completed an eight-session therapy program that included exercises to improve range of motion, cording massage and use of a compression machine. Although some exercises were painful and her surgical incisions remained tender, she noticed steady improvement.

About halfway through the program, she found herself reaching for items on a shelf with her left arm without even thinking about it.

“It has been wonderful. It's been so helpful,” she says.

Buck later ordered a compression sleeve and a pneumatic device for home use. After completing radiation treatment and returning for a final visit, Keirn was discharged to continue her exercises independently.

Today, Keirn is clear of any detectable spread of breast cancer and grateful for the team that helped her recover.

“I’m very happy to have the people that I have helping me with this.”

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To learn more about breast cancer services at IU Health, visit iuhealth.org/breast.

10/14/2026

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Eric Fleck, DO, to Riley Children’s Health Pediatric Primary Care in Avon, located at IU Health West.

Dr. Fleck earned his medical degree from Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2023 and completed his pediatric residency at Riley Children's Health in 2026. He is excited to begin caring for children and families as part of the pediatric primary care team.

Dr. Fleck knew early on that he wanted a career in medicine. During his undergraduate studies, he volunteered at a local elementary school in Bloomington, Indiana, where he discovered a passion for working with children and helping them thrive. Today, he is dedicated to partnering with families to support the health and well-being of every child and empower them to be their best selves.

Outside of work, he enjoys rock climbing, playing board games and video games with friends and spending time outdoors, especially on walks with his wife.

Please help us welcome Dr. Fleck in the comments!

You can learn more here: rileychildrens.org/find-a-doctor/physician/eric-j-fleck

10/08/2026

Two roles, one purpose -

When visiting the Acuity Adaptable unit (AAU) at IU Health West Hospital, patients and families may be welcomed by Nicholas Matson at the nurses’ station.

Matson serves in a dual role as both a patient care assistant (PCA) and unit secretary, bringing versatility and support to the team each day. As a unit secretary, he answers calls, assists visitors in locating patient rooms and helps keep the unit running smoothly. As a PCA, he provides direct patient care, assisting with bathing, meals and other activities of daily living.

Over the past two years, Matson has become a valued member of the AAU team and enjoys helping prepare future caregivers through education.

“It's my first healthcare job, and I started on this unit. I also teach PCA Foundations, which is the class that the PCAs take,” he explains.

One of the things Matson appreciates most about working at IU Health West is the culture of teamwork on the unit.

“Honestly, this team, especially this unit, you can count on anybody to help you. If you're having a rough day, there's always going to be someone that's willing to help you, and vice versa,” he says.

For Matson, the most rewarding part of his role is the opportunity to connect with patients and their loved ones during meaningful moments.

“I like interacting with the patients and families. You can tell when you truly make a difference.”

10/01/2026

When compassion meets clinical excellence -

Authentic connections can make a meaningful difference in a patient's care experience. At IU Health West Hospital, two nurses recently demonstrated the compassion, expertise and dedication that define exceptional nursing care.

When a patient needed support and answers, Brian Perry (pictured first), a registered nurse working in the Resource Center, was there to help. He responded quickly and took time to ensure the patient fully understood their care.

“He took the time to answer all of my questions thoroughly and patiently, never making me feel rushed or like an inconvenience,” explains the patient. “He explained everything clearly, helping me understand my care and giving me a sense of confidence and peace during a time that often felt a little overwhelming.”

In addition to providing excellent clinical care, Perry built a genuine connection with the patient, helping them feel supported during a challenging time.

“It's rare to encounter someone who can balance clinical excellence with such heartfelt human connection, but he did so effortlessly,” says the patient.

For his compassionate approach and commitment to patient-centered care, Perry was recognized with a DAISY Award. This award honors extraordinary nurses who bring compassion and care to their patients.

On the hospital's 3B unit, registered nurse Emily Sexton (pictured second) made a similar difference for both patients and team members. Known for her willingness to help wherever needed, Sexton consistently contributes to a positive and supportive environment.

“She is a dependable team player who willingly supports others, creating a positive and collaborative environment for everyone around her,” says a fellow team member.

Sexton is also a strong advocate for her patients, working to ensure they receive safe, high-quality care and the best possible experience during their hospital stay.

“Emily is a fearless advocate for her patients, always putting their safety, well-being and best interests first. She approaches every situation with professionalism, critical thinking and grace, earning the trust of both her patients and her peers,” explains the team member.

Her commitment to serving others and delivering compassionate care earned Sexton a DAISY Award recognition as well.

Together, Perry and Sexton exemplify the IU Health values of compassion, excellence and teamwork, creating meaningful experiences for patients, families and colleagues alike. Let us know what you think of their actions below.

09/24/2026

Maternity nurse supports families every step of the way -

For Kristina Flowers, registered nurse, delivering exceptional patient care goes hand in hand with advancing excellence in healthcare. Over the past nine years at IU Health, Flowers has built a career grounded in service, leadership and support. For the last two years, she has cared for patients and families on the Maternity unit at IU Health West Hospital.

Flowers serves in dual roles as both a charge nurse and clinical advisor. As a charge nurse, she helps coordinate daily operations by managing schedules, collaborating with team members and ensuring the unit has the resources needed to provide high-quality care. As a clinical advisor, she supports her colleagues through education, training and implementation of new policies and best practices.

While no two days are the same, Flowers says the strong sense of teamwork on the unit makes all the difference.

“You always feel supported. You always want to come to work because you're working with your friends,” she says.

In addition to supporting her team, Flowers is passionate about helping growing families feel confident and prepared as they welcome a new baby.

“I enjoy being on Maternity. I love educating new moms, dads and families. It's fun bringing babies into the world, and then supporting them afterwards too,” she explains. “Giving them all this education, it's a lot to take in. I want to make sure they feel supported and ready to go home.”

Through education, encouragement and compassionate care, Flowers helps families navigate one of life's most meaningful moments while ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.

Join the team behind life’s first moments. Explore nursing roles at careers.iuhealth.org.

09/18/2026

IU Health West team members gathered at Arbuckle Acres Park in Brownsburg today for the hospital’s 18th annual Days of Service. Volunteers spent the day planting foliage, removing invasive shrubs and painting fencing to help enhance one of the community's beloved public spaces.

Days of Service is an annual IU Health initiative that brings team members together across the state to volunteer their time and talents to support local organizations and community needs.

Krystle Barber, Community Outreach consultant for IU Health's Metro Region, helped coordinate the event.

"Healthy communities are built through strong partnerships and shared investment," Barber says. "Spaces like Arbuckle Acres Park give people places to connect, stay active and enjoy the outdoors. It's rewarding to work alongside our team members to help create environments that support quality of life for the communities we serve."

The project is one of multiple Days of Service opportunities taking place this year in Hendricks County. Other volunteer efforts include assembling meal kits for Million Meals Movement, painting at Hope Healthcare Services and creating potholders for local food pantries.

Through these projects, IU Health team members are helping strengthen the communities they serve while demonstrating a continued commitment to improving health beyond clinical care.

Thank you to Brownsburg Parks and Recreation for partnering with us and helping make this year's Days of Service a success!

09/17/2026

Each year, teams and team members who exemplify the IU Health values— purpose, excellence, compassion and team—are nominated by their peers or leaders for the IU Health Values Leadership Awards (VLA).

Congratulations to the 2026 VLA winner at IU Health West—Nursing Team Member: Shanele Rhoads, RN, Pre-op and Post-Anesthesia Care unit (PACU)

As a registered nurse working in IU Health West’s Pre-op and PACU, Shanele Rhoads (pictured holding basket) helps prepare patients for surgery and monitors them closely as they recover from anesthesia.

Her passion extends beyond her unit, as Rhoads has developed an unwavering commitment to families experiencing infant loss at IU Health West. In recent years, Rhoads has organized the hospital’s annual bereavement ceremony for families who have experienced infant loss. She’s also led efforts to restore the rose garden where the ceremony takes place.

Rhoads’ nominator, Michelle Strahl, clinical operations manager for the Surgical Service Line at IU Health West, writes:

“Shanele’s compassion spans this entire spectrum. She treats every loss as meaningful. She educates staff on how to speak with families without minimizing their grief and prepares keepsakes for families to take home—small but powerful gestures that acknowledge the significance of their loss. She guides staff through the initial conversations that shape a family’s experience, ensuring they feel supported, respected, and never alone.

This past year, Shanele also dedicated countless hours collaborating with the pathology department and county officials to understand new documentation requirements related to pregnancy loss. She worked closely with Labor and Delivery leadership to update the hospital’s policy, ensuring it met all legal, regulatory and ethical standards. After completing this complex work, she held a special education session with the perioperative team to explain the changes, clarify the legal components, and ensure every team member understood the importance of accurate, compassionate documentation. Her leadership in this area strengthened compliance, improved workflows, and ensured families received consistent, respectful care.

Shanele’s compassion extends not only to patients and families, but also to her own team members. When team members experience pregnancy loss in their families or personally, she steps in with the same level of care, even if the loss did not occur at our hospital. She believes deeply that we are one team and one family, and she supports her colleagues with the same tenderness she offers to patients.”

09/11/2026

Understanding menopause: What women should know -

Menopause is a natural stage of life, and simply put, it is the transition from childbearing to post-reproductive years. Dr. Kyle Mackey, OB/GYN at IU Health West, explains what menopause is and what women should be aware of as they approach it.

What is menopause?

"Menopause is defined by the absence of menstrual cycles for more than one year. While that absence may define this stage, menopause is much more. In fact, women experience many changes during the years leading up to their final menstrual period. This time preceding menopause is called perimenopause.

The average age of menopause is 52 years, but it commonly occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 years. Often, a woman can look at family members who have previously gone through menopause to estimate when this may occur. Early menopause is defined when this occurs between ages 40 and 45. Premature menopause occurs in those age 40 and under."

What causes menopause?

"Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and that supply naturally declines with age. In fact, only about 500 of those eggs will be destined for ovulation. As egg reserves decrease, communication between the brain and ovaries changes, leading to fluctuations in hormone levels. Eventually, when the ovaries stop releasing eggs and produce significantly less estrogen, menstrual periods come to an end, marking menopause.

Women who undergo surgical removal of the ovaries prior to menopause may experience more abrupt and severe symptoms than those who have not. In contrast, women who have a hysterectomy but keep their ovaries will stop having menstrual periods, but they typically reach menopause around the same age as women who have not had the procedure."

Common symptoms

"The years leading up to menopause can bring changes in a woman’s menstrual cycle and a variety of symptoms including:
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Sleep problems
- Brain fog
- Irregular bleeding
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood swings
- Vaginal atrophy

Women experience these symptoms differently. Some may experience little to no impact on their quality of life, while others may find the symptoms significantly disruptive. Women are strongly encouraged to bring up these concerns with their healthcare provider."

The importance of ongoing health screenings

"Menopause represents an important time to have routine health screenings. A primary care provider with expertise in women’s health or a gynecologist can help guide women through this transition. It is highly recommended to continue routine cancer screenings, such as breast, cervical and colorectal screenings. Women should also alert their healthcare provider if bleeding occurs following menopause."

Treatment options

"Menopause has been the subject of a lot of discussion over the years, especially when it comes to treatment options. Recent research shows that hormone therapy can be a safe and effective option for many women when used appropriately and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. For some women, treatment may not only help relieve symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats but may also support long-term health and well-being.

IU Health offers comprehensive menopausal care tailored to each women’s unique needs. Your healthcare provider can help determine the best plan based on your symptoms, medical history and personal goal.

Menopause is a natural stage of life and is not something to be shunned, disregarded or criticized. If symptoms are affecting your daily life, talk with your healthcare provider about options available to help you feel your best."

To learn more, visit iuhealth.org and search “menopause.”

09/02/2026

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

IU Health West Hospital has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring people experiencing stroke receive timely, appropriate treatment based on nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately helping to save lives and reduce disability.

Stroke is the no. 4 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S, according to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Report. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain is blocked by a clot or ruptures, preventing blood and oxygen from reaching brain tissue. When this happens, brain cells begin to die. Early detection and rapid treatment are critical to improving survival, minimizing disability and supporting faster recovery.

Get With The Guidelines brings the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association into 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 designed to improve stroke care through consistent adherence to these guidelines, which can minimize long-term effects of stroke and help prevent death.

"IU Health West Hospital is committed to improving patient care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” says Theresa Perry, MSN, RN, Stroke Program and Quality coordinator, “Get With The Guidelines helps our teams put proven science into practice every day. Research shows this approach can support better recovery, with the ultimate goal of helping people in Avon live longer, healthier lives.”

Each year, participating hospitals qualify for the award by demonstrating how their organization has committed to providing quality stroke care. In addition to following clinical treatment guidelines, Get With The Guidelines participants also provide education to help people manage their recovery and ongoing health at home.

“We are proud to recognize IU Health West Hospital for its commitment to caring for people experiencing stroke,” said Steven Messe, M.D., 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, including greater likelihood of being discharged home, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates — a meaningful benefit for health care systems, families and communities.”

IU Health West Hospital also received the American Heart Association’s Target: Stroke SM Honor Roll 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.

IU West Hospital 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.

Pictured left to right: Mani Query, DNP, RN, NEA-B, director of Operations for IU Health Metro Region Neurology, Spine and Orthopedic service lines; Theresa Perry, MSN, RN, Stroke Program and Quality coordinator; Sadia Saba, MD, neurologist.

IU Health offers a variety of stroke treatment options, depending on the type of stroke and individual needs of patients. To learn more about these options and stroke symptoms, visit iuhealth.org/find-medical-services/stroke.

08/31/2026

Finding confidence through breastfeeding support -

Allison Williamson wasn't initially sure she wanted to breastfeed her daughter. But after attending new-mom classes, she decided she wanted to give it a try. When Aria was born, Allison connected with the lactation team at IU Health West to help make that goal a reality.

As a first-time mom, Allison wasn't sure what to expect from her breastfeeding journey, but she was pleasantly surprised by the support she received.

"You can tell these people absolutely love their jobs, love what they do," she says. "They never seem put out, or say, 'Yes, I've heard this question 100 times.' It's 100% attention on you, 100% of the time."

"Our plan is whatever mom's plan is. We want to get her to where she wants to be," adds Crecia Berninger, a lactation consultant at IU Health West. "If she changes her mind at any time, we are changing with her. We always try to make sure our recommendations and support align closely with her goals, whether that's breastfeeding, pumping or combination feeding."

Aria was delivered at 38 weeks, and Allison's milk did not come in for about two weeks after giving birth. During that time, she supplemented with donor milk and formula.

After a brief postpartum stay, Allison was readmitted three days later for postpartum preeclampsia. While she recovered and learned to help Aria latch, members of the lactation team visited at least once or twice a day, and more frequently when needed.

Finding reassurance and community

In the weeks that followed, Allison also attended the breastfeeding support group at IU Health West, where she found education, encouragement and connection with other mothers.

"I went to the breastfeeding group every Monday, sometimes to get support for pain or adjustments, and sometimes just for the camaraderie of being around other moms and women who really understand what you're going through," she says. "I think the lactation team served as therapists sometimes, being there and seeing how they support beyond just, 'Is baby doing OK?'"

The weekly support group meets every Monday at 10 am, except on federal holidays, in the Labor and Delivery large waiting area. Berninger says she consistently hears positive feedback from mothers who attend.

"There's strength in numbers. When you're a mom who is struggling, it's wonderful to have professional guidance and someone there to help," she explains. "But it's also important to know you're not alone. Hearing from other moms who are going through the same thing, or who have gone through it and come out the other side, can be incredibly empowering."

Support is available

August marks National Breastfeeding Month, an annual observance dedicated to improving breastfeeding support and outcomes across the United States.

Today, Allison is successfully breastfeeding Aria and enjoying life with her growing daughter. She hopes sharing her experience encourages other mothers to seek support and know that help is available.

"I encourage new moms, and even moms having another baby, who may have never breastfed before, to give it a shot," she says. "You'd be really surprised how resourceful the lactation team is at making you feel supported and seen and helping you build that amazing bond with your baby."

Berninger hopes mothers understand that breastfeeding support is available regardless of their feeding goals.

"Maybe you only want to do a little breastfeeding. Maybe you just want to pump a little," she says. "You can come see us, and we can help keep you on the path you choose. We want you to feel empowered to feed your baby in the way that works best for you."

In addition to the postnatal breastfeeding support group, IU Health West now offers a prenatal breastfeeding support group. The group meets every Monday at 5 pm, except on federal holidays, and is also held in the Labor and Delivery large waiting area. Both support groups are open to anyone interested in breastfeeding, regardless of where they plan to give birth or delivered their baby. For more information, call the IU Health West Lactation team at 317.217.3639.

Pictured, left to right: Deanna Mitchell, registered nurse and certified lactation counselor; Allison Williamson; Crecia Berninger, lactation consultant

Address

1111 Ronald Reagan Pkwy
Avon, IN
46123

Telephone

+13172173000

Website

http://www.iuhealth.org/west

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