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| Sixteen-year-old Leah Crossen (right) is recovering
well after being cared for by pediatric gastroenterologist Ninfa Candela, MD
(left). |
Providing quality,
patient-centered care is always at the core of what we do at UMass Memorial. Our
Children's Medical Center is doing its part to ensure this happens, and patients
and families are taking notice.
With the recent expansion of pediatric gastroenterology services and the
addition of new physicians, access to care is easier for patients like
16-year-old Leah Crossen, who was treated by Ninfa Candela, MD, for stomach
pain.
"Dr. Candela examined Leah thoroughly," said Leah's mom, Judy. "She sat with
us, listened to Leah talk about her symptoms, examined her and ordered some
tests. The doctor was great, and today Leah is feeling much better. I was also
impressed that Dr. Candela called us a few weeks after we first saw her to check
in on Leah."
As the largest pediatric gastroenterology program in Central Massachusetts,
UMass Memorial specialists offer expertise for gastrointestinal disorders such
as abdominal pain, constipation and reflux, as well as more complex problems
like gastrointestinal bleeding, liver disease and nutritional issues.
"In addition to a shorter wait for appointments, children benefit from
integrated care and can see multiple specialists in one visit," said Jay Fong,
MD, also a pediatric gastroenterologist. "Pediatric anesthesiologists are
available for procedures, which is an added level of comfort for patients and
parents alike."