IU Health Bloomington

06/24/2026

Women over the age of 40 are encouraged to receive a yearly screening mammogram. Individuals with increased risk, including a family history of breast cancer, may be encouraged to start screening earlier.

“Early detection is critical because it leads to less aggressive therapy, higher survival rates and lower chances of recurrence,” says Jon Prairie, NP, with the IU Health Hematology & Oncology – Bloomington team.

A mammogram offers the best chance for early detection. IU Health offers advanced technologies for you and your loved ones.

Learn more below:

IU Health Bloomington OBGYN Rachel Manley, MD, and Jon Prairie, NP, share their insights on the importance of getting regular screening mammograms.

06/22/2026

Congratulations to DAISY Award winner, Shaina Durand, RN!

“Healthcare allows me to make a real difference every day, whether that's through patient care, emotional support, education, or simply being a reassuring presence,” says Shaina. “Clinical care is important, but showing kindness, patience and understanding can truly change someone’s experience. Taking the time to listen and help patients feel safe and informed can make a huge impact on the patient’s experience and recovery.”

One of her patients really appreciated this approach during their stay, which started with a reassuring smile at shift change: “She introduced herself to me while informing me that she was going to take good care of me. She was professional at all times, yet she made me feel that if I shared something very personable that she would keep listening without judgment. Her entire core was more than good quality nursing care.”

Please share your kudos below!

06/19/2026

We're thrilled to welcome Dr. Cody Bellard to the IU Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine - Bloomington team!

Dr. Cody Bellard is a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon with Certificate of Added Qualification in sports medicine.

Originally from south Louisiana, he grew up active in the outdoors and played baseball and soccer, eventually competing in college soccer and a year of semiprofessional soccer in Spain. He tore his ACL playing soccer in college, which influenced his decision to become an orthopedic surgeon.

Dr. Bellard received a double major in biology and chemistry from The University of Louisiana-Monroe and a diploma in Hispanic studies from Universidad Complutense de Madrid. He also obtained a Doctor of Medicine from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. His post-graduate education and training included an Orthopedic Surgery Residency at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and a Sports Medicine Fellowship at Ochsner Andrews Sports Medicine Institute, where he served as assistant physician for the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Pelicans.

Learn more about Dr. Bellard at https://iuhealth.org/find-providers/provider/cody-b-bellard-md-4380665.

06/18/2026

Visit redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code "IUHBLOOM" to sign up for the American Red Cross blood drive on Friday, June 26!

06/18/2026

What started as a simple heart murmur turned into a life-changing journey for Chris, a longtime Bloomington resident.

After learning he had a leaky mitral valve, Chris turned to Dr. Tripathi and the robotic-assisted heart surgery now offered right here in Bloomington.

Thanks to this minimally invasive procedure, he experienced a quicker recovery, greater peace of mind, and the comfort of receiving expert care close to home.

"Now knowing that I'm in good hands and that the problem has been taken care of, I would recommend Dr. Tripathi and his wonderful healing hands," says Chris.

Learn more about the IU Health Cardiovascular Surgery program at https://iuhealth.org/find-locations/iu-health-cardiovascular-surgery-2651-e-discovery-pkwy-bloomington

Chris, a longtime Bloomington resident, never expected a simple hea...

06/17/2026

Did you know that certain things can cause a headache or migraine?

Common triggers include poor or lack of sleep, dehydration, stress, illness, seasonal changes, barometric pressure, allergies and certain foods and drinks.

Dietary triggers can vary for each person, and identifying and avoiding the food(s) and/or drink(s) at fault can be a big help. Chocolate and alcohol are two well-known dietary triggers to consider.

Some health issues, medications and genetics may also increase the risk of headaches and migraines. In these cases, working with a primary care provider can be a big help in finding the right treatment.

Learn more about headaches and migraines from Cassandra Dishman-Kessler, DO, IU Health Primary Care - Bloomington physician at https://iuhealth.org/thrive/not-all-head-pain-is-the-same-a-headache-and-migraine-q-a.

06/16/2026

Colon cancer is expected to affect more than 108,000 people in the U.S. in 2026—nearly every case beginning as a silent, slow‑growing polyp.

“The goal of a colonoscopy is to find and remove polyps before they have the chance to turn into cancer,” says IU Health South Region Gastroenterologist, Bret Spier, MD.

Most adults should begin screening at 45, and some may need it earlier based on family history or other risk factors.

A single screening can make a life‑saving difference. Don’t wait to prioritize your colon health.

Learn more below:

IU Health Bloomington Gastroenterologist Bret Spier, MD shares how colonoscopies can both detect and remove polyps—pre-cancerous growths—before they progress.

06/15/2026

Knowing where to go for care can save you time and money while keeping healthcare facilities operating efficiently.

Please take a moment to review the information below to ensure you're getting the best care for your needs.

06/12/2026

The mobile lung-screening team is heading to Nashville, IN, on Monday, June 29!

Lung cancer screening is easy, with no need for needles, special diet or change of clothes—and it can save your life. Screenings are covered by insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Eligibility requirements:
• Ages 50 - 77 AND
• Currently smoke or have quit in the last 15 years

Register here: https://ow.ly/txZ850YYbEa

Appointments are recommended; same day appointments may be available and are limited.

06/11/2026

From an annoyance to a debilitating pain—headaches and migraines can affect people on a wide spectrum. They have their individual characteristics and may need to be addressed differently.

Many people can manage headaches and migraines with:
• Lifestyle changes (improving sleep habits, diet, etc)
• Over-the-counter medications
• Sleeping
• Hydrating

While caffeine isn’t optimal, it can help with both headaches and migraines. Placing a cold compress on the neck, forehead, temples or eyes for 15 to 20 minutes at a time can also help.

Migraines can be made worse by bright lights and ambient noise, so going into a dark, quiet room may provide relief.

Learn more from Cassandra Dishman-Kessler, DO, IU Health Primary Care - Bloomington physician at https://iuhealth.org/thrive/not-all-head-pain-is-the-same-a-headache-and-migraine-q-a.