Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce
09/09/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/09/2025 15:00
UPMC Expands Services for Those Living with Epilepsy and Seizures
Harrisburg, Pa. (September 9, 2025) - UPMC Neurological Institute is expanding specialized care for central Pennsylvania residents with epilepsy or seizure disorders by welcoming three fellowship-trained epileptologists to their team.
"A growing number of patients in our communities are living with unexplained repeated seizures or being diagnosed with epilepsy," said Kimberly Rinehart, executive administrator, UPMC Neurological Institute. "While these conditions can be unpredictable, we provide patients and their loved ones with care plans to help them get back to living life on their terms."
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that causes repeated seizures. It affects an estimated three million people in the U.S. While most people with epilepsy can live full, healthy lives, identifying the cause of the seizures and managing them is crucial to a patient's quality of life.
Michelle Calmet, M.D. , Mustafa Donmez, M.D. , and Natasha Qutab, M.D. join Sasan Salimian, M.D. in caring for patients across locations in Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg, Hershey, Annville and Lancaster. The team also serves as a bridge for pediatric epilepsy patients as they transition to adulthood and their disease management needs change.
Treatment for epilepsy focuses on preventing seizures. Most patients take anti-seizure medications, which can help control abnormal brain activity. About two-thirds of people with epilepsy can become seizure-free with the right medication. For those who don't respond well to medication, other treatments are available, such as surgery, neurostimulation devices, or specialized diets. By bringing together this team of epileptologists, UPMC provides timely access to tailored treatment plans for people with epilepsy.
"Having a seizure can be a traumatic event for patients and their friends and family," said Kerstin Bettermann, M.D., chief of neurology, UPMC in Central Pa. "Our expanded epilepsy program will provide needed relief to epilepsy and seizure patients living in our communities."
To schedule an appointment with the epileptology team, call 717-791-2520.
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