Why Choose NorthShore University HealthSystem for cancers of the Brain, Spinal Cord and Nervous System?

The Neuro-Oncology Program of NorthShore University HealthSystem combines the advanced knowledge and treatment options of a major academic medical center with the caring, personal attention of a community hospital. Our program was one of the first established in the Chicago area, and our clinical staff has extensive experience treating patients with cancers of the brain, spinal cord and nervous system. We care for adults with primary and metastatic brain and spinal cord tumors. Our patients receive access to the latest diagnostic and treatment approaches and to clinical trials for emerging treatments. Perhaps most importantly, our patients and their loved ones are attended to by an entire team of experts from a variety of medical disciplines who combine their knowledge and skill to provide coordinated, comprehensive care. 

Neurosurgery

NorthShore University HealthSystem is home to world-renowned, fellowship-trained, board certified neurosurgeons.  Clinic offices for patient appointments are conveniently located in Evanston, Vernon Hills, and Highland Park.  Qualified patients may also gain access to cutting-edge clinical trials and research studies.

Evidence-Based Treatments

Our collaborative practice model focuses on the specific needs of our patients and their families. The program works closely with radiation oncology, medical oncology, neuro-surgery, community resources and hospice services throughout the NorthShore University HealthSystem system in the treatment and care of people with brain tumors. Our neuro-oncologists have taken part in many pivotal studies that have helped to determine which drug therapies are most appropriate for individuals diagnosed with brain and spinal cord tumors.

Many of the options we provide to individuals with brain tumors have emerged from clinical trials led by our own physician-scientists. The program offers clinical trials sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), pharmaceutical companies, as well as investigator-initiated studies.

A Whole Team Dedicated to Your Care

Our Neuro-Oncology Program is located in the Kellogg Cancer Center at Evanston Hospital.  Nina A. Paleologos, MD, Director, and Nicholas A. Vick, MD, both neuro-oncologists, are on faculty at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine.  Also part of our team is neuro-oncologist Ayman Omar, MD, PhD, LMCC. The program offers comprehensive care for brain tumor patients and their families through clinical care, support services and research. Our registered nurses work closely with physicians and are dedicated to the care of the brain tumor patient. 

The Neuro-Oncology Clinic’s hours are weekdays from 8:30-4:30 pm. A neurologist is available for emergencies after hours and on weekends. Our physician assistant follows patients, along with our neuro-oncologists, in the inpatient setting, communicating patient status regularly with the outpatient clinic. 

Concern For You and Your Family

Our social worker is available throughout the course of our patients’ medical treatments to help patients and families cope with the stressors that often accompany illness. The neuro-oncology social worker provides for the psychological, social, emotional and practical needs our brain tumor patients. Support groups for the brain tumor patient and his or her caregivers are offered on the fourth Wednesday evening of every month. A registered dietician is available for nutritional guidance through radiation and chemotherapy treatments.

A Community of Care

Individuals with a diagnosis of cancer often say that they appreciate the warmth and consistent professionalism they experience during treatment at our system’s three Kellogg Cancer Centers. Every patient’s care plan includes psychosocial support, access to integrative therapies and other healing resources.