Paradigm offering newest testing for optimum living

By KEVIN CHIRI

Slidell news bureau

SLIDELL – Since opening its doors in 2012, Paradigm Health System has been on a mission to set a new standard in health care, demonstrating how smaller physician-led groups can not only survive but thrive in an industry dominated by large hospital corporations.

Over the past decade, Paradigm has expanded its reach, with a growing state-of-the-art Slidell campus, its original office in Lacombe, and a new campus location in Mandeville serving western St. Tammany Parish.

Managing Partner Kevin Schneider attributes Paradigm’s success to a forward-thinking approach that preserves the integrity of the doctor-patient relationship.

“Our model allows physicians to flourish and preserves the traditional doctor/patient relationship you simply can’t reproduce in a ‘big-box’ setting. When they come to us, patients always see their familiar doctor faces, and our physicians don’t rush anyone in and out,” he said 10 years ago in a Slidell Independent feature story.

This innovative approach has driven steady growth, culminating in the launch of a cutting-edge, three-story building on Robert Boulevard in Slidell, positioning Paradigm as a leader in next-generation healthcare services.

The new facility introduces groundbreaking programs designed to take healthcare into the future, including:

–Whole Body MRI: State-of-the-art MRI technology that provides a whole-body scan for early detection and prevention of various conditions. It delivers detailed images of all organs, tissues, and bones, uncovering potential health issues that might otherwise remain undiscovered until much later, giving patients a clear path to optimal health.

–Cardiac CT Angiogram with A.I.: Generates a 3D model of all coronary arteries, detailing plaque levels and providing vessel-by-vessel evaluation. This allows physicians to identify emerging coronary issues early and begin treatment well in advance of symptoms.

–Expanded Atypical Lab Profile: Comprehensive lab work that not only addresses typical markers but also evaluates vitamins, hormones, lipid levels, and glucose markers. This detailed analysis assesses kidney and liver function, detecting potential problems at the earliest stages.

–DEXA Bone Density Scan: Offers a comprehensive assessment of total body fat, lean muscle mass, and the mineral content and density of bones, providing critical insights into overall health and fitness.

–Early Cancer Detection (Grail Test): Capable of identifying 50 different types of cancer, this test focuses on detecting cancer at its earliest stages, significantly lowering the risk of cancer-related fatalities.

–Biome Test for Gut Health: Explores the gut’s crucial role in overall health by analyzing the DNA of organisms in stool. Often considered the cornerstone of good health, this test detects inflammation, fungi, yeast, parasites, and other microbes that can impact wellness.

–DNA Methylation Test: Determines the true biological age of cells by analyzing 900,000 locations on your DNA. It predicts lifespan, health span, and the risk of developing various diseases, providing a personalized insight into long-term health.

“We are building things with the spirit of excellence,” Schneider said. “We are offering a way to optimize longevity and vitality with early detection of almost anything that could affect you. This has always been a passion of mine—to hack the archaic system of healthcare so we can live our best lives.”

Paradigm’s newly opened building features a unique addition that stands out—not as another advanced health care service, but as a testament to the organization’s commitment to its team. The rooftop deck, thoughtfully designed and constructed, serves as what Schneider describes as, “an investment in our team to give them a place to relax and once again, feel the excellence we seek in all we do.”

The deck is fully equipped for both social and professional gatherings, outfitted with a kitchen and bar, premium sound system, and panoramic view of Robert Boulevard.

“There isn’t anything like this in the east or west of this parish,” Schneider shared during a tour. “In addition to being available for our employees, we’ll host business functions here or rent it out to groups looking for a fabulous place to celebrate and connect.”

Under the leadership of newly appointed CEO Taylor Cera from Youngstown, OH, Paradigm has grown to a team of 23 physicians across multiple specialties, including neurology, radiology/imaging, orthopedics, sports medicine, spine surgery, interventional pain management, neurosurgery, podiatry, primary care, functional medicine, and rheumatology.

Founded in 2012 by Schneider and six prominent neurologists—Dr. Michael Becker, Dr. Patrick Glynn, Dr. Michael Happel, Dr. James Houser, Dr. Rex Houser, and Dr. Thomas Krefft—Paradigm has continued to expand its offerings. In July, the practice will introduce a regenerative medicine program offering natural, non-surgical treatment options.

Additionally, a new imaging center at the Slidell campus is now operational. Schneider said, the program is already drawing patients from across the country, who fly in to undergo the total body evaluation.

“We’ve built something truly special—a beacon for innovative healthcare, our own shining city on the hill. We are quickly seeing how many people want these kinds of services that are pro-active, not re-active as most healthcare is,” he said. “We feel very blessed and the employees we have here can feel it—you see the smiles on their faces when they are working.” Schneider said. “It’s a blessing to see the impact on our patients and our team. Their smiles and satisfaction speak volumes.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 985-882-4500 or visit ParadigmHealth.net.