Practices merging to better care for women

NORWALK — Dr. James Kasten and NOMS OB/GYN are merging their practices to create an expanded, unified center of excellence for women's health in Huron County. "Together these two practices bring a remarkable depth of experience with more than 50 combined years of caring for the women of this community," according to a statement from Fisher-Titus. "From routine gynecological care to high-risk obstetrics and advanced minimally invasive surgery, patients will benefit from a broader team of specialists working collaboratively under one roof, in partnership with Fisher-Titus Medical Center." Bio blast Kasten has been a cornerstone of women's health care in Norwalk for more than 40 years. A graduate of The Ohio State University College of Medicine and board-certified diplomat of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kasten has delivered more than 14,000 infants and serves as chief of obstetrics and gynecology at Fisher-Titus. His expertise spans non-invasive gynecology, laparoscopic techniques and DaVinci robotic surgery. NOMS OB/GYN is represented by Dr. Mona Nataprawira, a board-certified diplomat of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology with 12 years of dedicated practice in comprehensive women's health care. Nataprawira's philosophy centers on empowering her patients "not only through excellent medical care but by educating women to take ownership of their full physical, mental and emotional well-being," the statement read. "As an obstetrician and gynecologist, my goal is not only to provide excellent medical care but to educate women to take charge of their own health, not just of the physical body but their overall well-being mentally and emotionally," Nataprawira said. The statement followed up, noting how, "This merger strengthens the continuum of obstetric and gynecological care available to patients in Norwalk and the surrounding communities." Celebrating a legacy of compassionate care Teresa "Jeannie" Lampe, a certified adult nurse practitioner, will retire at the end of April after a 26-year career with Kasten at his practice. Lampe joined the practice on Jan. 11, 2000, becoming the first nurse practitioner to join the region. Trained at Case Western Reserve University's Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, she has dedicated her career to specializing in women's health, serving patients with skill, warmth and unwavering dedication throughout more than a quarter century. Certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and licensed to prescribe by the Ohio Board of Nursing, Lampe has been more than a clinician: "She has been a trusted friend and advocate to thousands of women across this community," according to the statement. "It has been an honor to work alongside Dr. Kasten caring for so many women in this community," Lampe said. "I am deeply grateful for the trust my patients placed in me and the relationships I have built with my colleagues and staff over the years." Marcia Poland, the office's business practice manager, said, "It is hard to imagine our office without Jeannie's dedication and loyalty to our patients and practice. Retirement is the perfect reward for her 26-plus years of hard work. Jeannie can be proud of all she accomplished here and the difference she made in her patients', colleagues', and friends' lives." Added Kasten: "How do you sum up the better part of three decades? Jeannie has been a friend, confidant and colleague throughout the trials and tribulations of practice and life. It has been a privilege and blessing for my practice and the community to have such a compassionate and caring practitioner. Her contributions will be missed, but she deserves a long, healthy and prosperous retirement."