UofL School of Medicine and Norton Children’s names new pediatric gastroenterology chief

James P. Franciosi, M.D., to lead Norton Children’s Gastroenterology, UofL’s Department of Pediatrics Division of Gastroenterology

 UofL School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics and Norton Children’s has named a new physician to lead its gastroenterology team.

James P. Franciosi, M.D., will serve as chief of Norton Children’s Gastroenterology and division chief of the University of Louisville School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics Division of Gastroenterology. In these roles, Dr. Franciosi will lead Norton Children’s team of physicians and staff dedicated to treating pediatric gastrointestinal (GI) disorders including stomach, intestinal tract, liver and pancreas, as well as nutritional issues. He also will be tasked with leading the vision for researching, developing and providing access to new treatments for pediatric GI disorders.

“I am excited and honored to lead the Norton Children’s Gastroenterology team and the UofL Department of Pediatrics Division of Gastroenterology,” Dr. Franciosi said. “Our vision is to develop and expand our group of physicians to provide outstanding care to patients throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana. There is great opportunity to grow our research and create more access so everyone in our region can receive care close to home.” 

Dr. Franciosi comes from Nemours Children’s Hospital in Orlando, Florida, where he specialized in pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition. He also was involved in research on pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis, a chronic immune condition that leads to inflammation of the esophagus, with a goal of personalizing therapies for children based on their unique genetic profile.

“Gastroenterology is one of those core services that just contributes to a comprehensive care delivery system, and it is a goal of the UofL Department of Pediatrics to grow this program, and James’s addition to the division of Gastroenterology will elevate that mission,” said Kimberly A. Boland, M.D., chief of staff, Norton Children’s Hospital, and endowed chair of pediatrics, UofL School of Medicine. “His focus on developing personalized care for children with GI disorders has greatly advanced child health. Our faculty, staff, fellows, residents and medical students are eager to benefit from his experience.”

“James has established himself as one of the top pediatric GI physicians in the country, and we’re excited for him to join our team,” said Susan Strack, system vice president, pediatric services, Norton Children’s. “Norton Children’s knows GI is a core service that is critical to providing comprehensive care for our patients. I look forward to seeing his vision unfold as we work to grow this department to ensure children are able to get the specialty care they need where they live.” 

Dr. Franciosi began his positions Oct. 1 and will start seeing patients in November.