Staff Info
Dennis F. Thompson, M.D., FACS, & Stephen Bovenkerk, D.O.
Dr. Dennis Thompson and Dr. Stephen Bovenkerk are otolaryngologists specializing in ear, nose and throat disorders as well as facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. They stay at the forefront of medical and surgical management of problems of the nose and sinuses, snoring and sleep apnea. They also help children and adults manage disorders of the ears, throat, voice, neck, thyroid and parathyroid glands, salivary glands, face and scalp, as well as diagnose and treat patients with allergies to food, pollen, dust or other environmental factors.
Dr. Thompson and Dr. Bovenkerk care for the cosmetic and post-traumatic needs of their patients, too. Whether their surgical skills are needed for birth defects, facial lesions, trauma or cancer they help improve your appearance and self-esteem.
Prior to studying medicine, Dr. Thompson taught in the public schools for several years. You will appreciate his teaching skills as he clearly explains medical conditions and your options, as well as answers questions so you can make informed decisions. You’ll also appreciate Dr. Bovenkerk’s understanding and compassion when addressing your concerns. A one-time allergy sufferer, he knows firsthand how frustrating allergies symptoms and other ear, nose and throat problems can be.
Dr. Thompson began his medical practice in 1987 in Freeport, Ill., and then joined Cedarwood Medical Center in St. Joseph, Mich., in 1997. Recognizing a need for more comprehensive ear, nose and throat services in Southwestern Michigan, he established the Lake Michigan Hearing Center and Lake Michigan Sinus and Sleep Apnea Center in 2000. In 2008, Dr. Bovenkerk joined the practice to expand the centers’ services, including treatment of allergies. Along with their staff, Audiologist Cathleen Burns helps them provide excellent care for all ages.
Our office welcomes new patients. You do not need a referral from your primary care physician or audiologist to see Dr. Thompson or Dr. Bovenkerk, unless your insurance requires it. Please call our office to make an appointment.
Cathleen A. Burns, M.A., CCC-A, FAAA
Cathleen (Cathy) Burns is a nationally certified audiologist. She has over a decade of experience measuring hearing loss and providing rehabilitative treatment for hearing impairments, ringing in the ears or balance disorders.
Cathy carefully assesses the hearing problems of babies to 16-year-old rock musicians to men and women more than 90 years old. She uses state-of-the-art diagnostics, corrective services and hearing aid technology to help improve your quality of life. If medical or surgical evaluation is necessary, she can readily consult Dr. Thompson or Dr. Bovenkerk.
Since beginning her St. Joseph practice in 1995, Cathy has earned a reputation for her attentiveness to patients' concerns as she helps them select and fit the proper hearing aids. She offers training on how to get the most comfort and satisfaction from new hearing equipment. She and her staff provide regular hearing aid cleanings and adjustments, battery replacement and annual evaluations.
In addition to hearing aids, Cathy provides hearing protection for musicians and employees as well as training in practical communication strategies for the hearing impaired and their family members, teachers and co-workers.
If you would like a hearing screening or evaluation, you do not need a physician’s referral. Just call our office for an appointment.
Support Staff
You’ll enjoy our cheerful nursing, technician and office staffs. They are dedicated to helping you feel at ease during your visit, answering your medical or insurance questions and making sure you understand how to get the most from your hearing equipment and services.
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