10 things you might not know about Riverside

Health care isn't something most of us think about until we need it. But when that moment comes, it matters where you turn. Here are 10 things you may not know are available at Riverside — from advanced heart surgery to life-changing carpal tunnel relief and a world-class cancer program. Remarkable care, right where you live.

1. Heart Care

The award-winning team at Riverside's Heart & Vascular Institute specializes in cardiology, interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, cardiac surgery, and vascular surgery — all right here in the community. When a heart emergency strikes, you don't have to travel far to get advanced care.

"Every second counts in a cardiac emergency, which is why the team at the Riverside Heart & Vascular Institute is proud to provide a full continuum of heart care for our community," says Vikas Patel, MD, interventional cardiologist.

Our state-of-the-art interventional suites allow providers to use minimally invasive procedures like TAVR (a valve replacement procedure) and WATCHMAN (a device that reduces stroke risk), which often mean better outcomes and faster recovery for patients.

2. Neurosurgery

Riverside is the only hospital in the region providing on-site brain and spine surgery. Our neurosurgeons are specially trained in advanced, minimally invasive techniques. That means patients who suffer a stroke or brain and spinal cord injury don't need an ambulance or helicopter ride to a distant facility — saving precious time when it matters most.

"It is important for patients to know they do not need to travel for advanced brain or spine care," says Juan Jimenez, MD, neurosurgeon. "Our team at the Riverside Neurosciences Institute is able to provide patients with a full continuum of neuro care in the community."

3. Cancer Care

At the Riverside Cancer Institute, we believe you should get the best possible treatment as close as possible to your home — surrounded by the people who love you most. Our dedicated care team is supervised by numerous oncologists and supported by the latest technology.

We recently added a second TrueBeam Linear accelerator, one of the most advanced radiation treatment systems available. It can treat nearly all types of cancer, in nearly any location in the body — including some of the rarest cancer types.

"The TrueBeam can be used to treat nearly all types of cancer, in nearly any location and including some of the most rare cancer types," says Issra Rashed, radiation oncologist at the Riverside Cancer Institute.

4. Orthopedics

Riverside Orthopedics helps people living with chronic pain and limited mobility get back to doing what they love. Our team treats patients of all ages — from kids and teens to adults and older adults — with both surgical and non-surgical options.

What sets us apart is the depth of our team. We have a dedicated hand surgeon, sports medicine specialists, and physicians focused on robotic surgery. Using Mako SmartRobotics, our surgeons use 3D, CT-based software to cut with incredible precision, protecting healthy bone and providing a better implant fit.

"By embracing Mako Robotics in surgery, we're ensuring the highest level of precision, faster recovery and a more tailored approach to unique needs, all to make the journey to better health smoother and safer," says orthopedic surgeon Mohammed Ahmed, MD.

Same-Day Carpal Tunnel Release

Orthopedic hand surgeon Taruna Madhav Crawford, MD, and orthopedic surgeon Jonathan Cotton, MD, now offer a minimally invasive carpal tunnel release procedure using UltraGuideCTR by Sonex Health — technology originally developed by physicians at the Mayo Clinic.

The procedure is performed under real-time ultrasound guidance through a single small incision, often closed with just an adhesive strip. It can be done in an outpatient setting using local anesthesia. Most patients return to regular activity in three to six days.

"For many, the Sonex procedure offers an opportunity to get the relief they seek," says Dr. Crawford. "Often, my patients are apprehensive because of the recovery time associated with traditional carpal tunnel surgery. This offers a different approach."

5. Riverside Medical Group

With nearly 170 providers representing 24 specialties and locations across five counties, Riverside Medical Group continues to grow to meet the needs of the communities we serve. We're actively recruiting primary and specialty care providers and using tools like MyChart to make care more accessible and convenient for patients.

"Access to care is incredibly important," says Dawn Willbarger, Vice President of Riverside Medical Group. "In order to be able to better provide this access and expand our care, we are actively recruiting primary and specialty care providers in the growing Riverside Medical Group."

6. Emergency Services

Riverside's emergency room (ER) provides the most advanced emergency care close to home. We're the only ER in the area with direct access to on-site heart surgery and neurosurgery. We also have the area's only on-site pediatricians from the University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital.

Our team of skilled doctors and nurses uses the latest technology to improve patient flow and communication — so you get the right care, faster.

"Our community has access to the latest in emergency medical innovations, close to home," says Kyle Benoit, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. "In an emergency, seconds can make all the difference, and having access to state-of-the-art emergency care is at the utmost importance for patient outcomes."

7. Senior Life

Riverside Senior Life Communities offers a full continuum of care — from independent living homes and apartments to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. Having all of these options in one location means older adults receive personalized care that supports their dignity and the activities they love, while families benefit from the convenience of one trusted place.

Aging can bring a range of health needs, from managing chronic conditions to responding to unexpected medical events. A care continuum ensures residents have access to exactly the level of support they need, when they need it.

8. A Teaching Hospital

Teaching hospitals like Riverside are where medical care and education meet — and patients benefit from both. Riverside offers residency programs in internal medicine and psychiatry, and fellowship programs in cardiology, interventional cardiology, and gastroenterology.

For patients, that means providers who are engaged, current, and motivated. For our community, it means we're training the next generation of health care professionals right here at home.

"Teaching hospitals are essential to the health care system," says Riverside President and CEO Phil Kambic. "Riverside provides leading-edge medical care while building the next generation of health care providers."

9. Immediate Care

When you or someone you love needs care that can't wait, Riverside is here. Our Immediate Care locations treat minor, non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries — including after-hours, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Not every situation calls for the emergency room. That's why our Immediate Care providers are available when your primary care office is closed — whether it's a Sunday sinus infection or your child's after-school injury. You'll get in, get care, and get back to feeling better faster.

"Our Immediate Care locations provide treatment for minor, non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries when and where you need it most," says Riverside Immediate Care provider Jessica Morales. "From mornings to weeknights and weekends, we offer immediate, convenient and accessible care."

10. MyRiverside MyChart

MyRiverside MyChart is your secure online connection to your health. From your phone, tablet, or computer, you can access your medical records, schedule appointments, check test results, pay bills, and message your care team — all in one place.

You can also request access to your family's health records, making it easy to help manage care for your children, spouse, or parents.

Take the hassle out of your health care. Download the myRiverside app from the Apple App Store or Google Play, or sign up at riversidemychart.org.