Newsroom

Northwest Health – Porter has successfully completed its first combined minimally invasive procedure to treat patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib), addressing both abnormal heart rhythm and stroke risk in a single setting. The procedure was performed by Mark Dixon, D.O., a cardiac electrophysiologist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of heart rhythm disorders, and Interventional Cardiologist Sandeep Sehgal, M.D. The innovative approach pairs pulse field ablation to treat AF... ... Read More

Heart attacks don’t always announce themselves with crushing chest pain – and for one Crown Point resident, the first warning signs felt more like the familiar heartburn he had managed for years than a life-threatening emergency. On an October day, Fogg stopped by a rental office, picked up a mountain bike – his own was in the shop — and headed to the Creekside Trails in Valparaiso, expecting nothing more than a few hours of riding. At 55 and in good health, he felt strong that morning, full of energy a... ... Read More

Heart health looks different for women – and the conversation is changing. Woman-to-Woman: A New Conversation about Heart Health invites women to come together for an engaging evening of dialogue, connection and insight focused on living a longer, heart-healthy life. Perfect for a “ladies’ night out,” the event will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, at Sand Creek Country Club, 1001 Sand Creek Drive, Chesterton. From 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., guests can sign-in and enjoy heavy appetizers while learning about... ... Read More

A fluttering feeling in the chest or a suddenly racing heart can be easy to brush off – but those sensations may be signs of a common yet serious heart rhythm disorder called atrial fibrillation, or AFib. The community is invited to join Northwest Medical Group cardiac electrophysiologist Jamario Skeete, M.D., for a one-hour seminar that will explore AFib symptoms and how this medical condition can increase a person’s risk for stroke and heart failure. The American Heart Association estimates that more ... ... Read More

Northwest Health – Porter will mark American Heart Month by offering a series of lunch-n-learn seminars, providing convenient, midday opportunities for the community to learn more about important heart health topics. Each of the free seminars will take place from noon to 1 p.m., throughout the month of February, in the Community Room at Northwest Health – Porter, 85 E. U.S. Highway 6, Valparaiso. Beyond the Beat: Understanding Cardiovascular Disease from the Top to Bottom Wednesday, Feb. 4 Take a guided... ... Read More

While weight-loss medications have gained attention in recent years while bariatric surgery continues to be a proven option for long-term health. Yet many patients don’t realize this life-saving procedure can work in tandem with GLP-1 medications. Andrew Martin, M.D., a bariatric and general surgeon with Northwest Health, will hold a free seminar that will explore weight loss surgery options, compare bariatric surgery with GLP-1 medications and how both approaches may complement each other. The communit... ... Read More

Northwest Health welcomes two primary care providers to Northwest Medical Group – its multispecialty physician network. Jennifer Sanders, PA – Valparaiso: Jennifer Sanders, P.A., specializes in general and preventive care and joined the Northwest Medical Group – Primary Care office at 2505 Calumet Ave., in Valparaiso on January 2. Sanders completed her master’s degree in physician assistant studies and received her bachelor’s degree at Valparaiso University. To schedule an appointment with Sanders, call... ... Read More

For people with obstructive sleep apnea, restful sleep can feel frustratingly out of reach, particularly when standard treatments fall short. A new FDA-approved, implantable device may offer a breakthrough option for patients seeking lasting relief. The community is invited to join Northwest Medical Group, Sleep Medicine Specialist and Pulmonologist, Marvi Bikak, M.D., for a free community seminar where she will discuss options for treating this breathing disorder, and the new device that keeps a person... ... Read More

US News and World Report has selected Northwest Health – La Porte as one of the Best Hospitals for Maternity Care in the United States, one of only 16 Indiana hospitals chosen. The selection was announced publicly on December 9, 2025. In determining the best hospitals, US News and World Report considered amenities available for expectant moms as well as data that measures patient outcomes and hospital processes. Northwest Health – La Porte was shown to have lower than average c-section and episiotomy ra... ... Read More

Northwest Health recognized six members of its medical staffs for their clinical expertise and exceptional dedication during special events held Dec. 2, 2025. Northwest Health – Porter recognized oncologist and hematologist Tareq Braik, M.D., as the Northwest Health – Porter 2025 Physician of the Year for his steady leadership and collaborative approach to patient care. He was selected by the leaders of the hospital’s medical staff. “Dr. Braik is admired for his exceptional clinical skill, his thoughtfu... ... Read More