7 Essential Facts About Dr. Michael Kakareka’s Current Medical Practice And WMU Affiliation
The question of whether Dr. Michael Kakareka, DO, is still actively practicing medicine, particularly in relation to his role at Western Michigan University (WMU), is a common query for patients and colleagues alike. As of late 2025, the definitive answer is a resounding yes: Dr. Kakareka is an actively practicing and highly dedicated neurosurgeon who maintains a significant academic appointment with the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine (WMed).
This article provides the most current and verified information on his professional status, his clinical practice locations, his specialty focus, and his ongoing commitment to medical education and patient care in the Michigan area and beyond. His dedication to neurosurgery remains his central professional passion, ensuring he is available for new patient consultations and complex surgical cases.
Dr. Michael Kakareka, DO: Professional Biography and Current Status
Dr. Michael Kakareka, DO, is a distinguished figure in the field of neurological surgery, known for his commitment to complex surgical care and medical education. His career trajectory highlights a strong foundation in osteopathic medicine combined with specialized training in neurosurgery.
- Full Name: Michael Kakareka, DO
- Primary Specialty: Neurosurgery
- Current Clinical Role: Neurosurgeon at Bronson Neuroscience Center
- Academic Appointment: Clinical Associate Professor at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine (WMed)
- Affiliated Hospitals: Bronson Methodist Hospital (Kalamazoo, MI), Bronson Battle Creek Hospital (Battle Creek, MI)
- Medical Education: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM)
- Residency: Neurological Surgery at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM)
- Practice Locations: He has been affiliated with practices in both the West Reading, PA area and the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek, MI area. His primary current affiliations are with the Bronson network in Michigan.
- Current Patient Status: Actively accepting new patients.
The Definitive Answer: Is Dr. Kakareka Still Practicing Medicine?
The short and most current answer is unequivocally yes, Dr. Michael Kakareka is still practicing medicine. His professional activities are split between his active clinical practice as a neurosurgeon and his academic responsibilities at WMed.
His clinical practice is centered around the Bronson Healthcare system, specifically at the Bronson Neuroscience Center, which serves the greater Southwest Michigan region, including Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. This affiliation places him directly in the community served by the WMU medical school.
Active Clinical Role at Bronson Neuroscience Center
Dr. Kakareka’s main professional focus is his role as a neurosurgeon. Neurosurgery is a highly demanding specialty, and his continued practice confirms his dedication to the field. He is known for his commitment to providing the "best possible care for patients." His active status means he is performing surgeries, managing patient care, and consulting on complex neurological conditions.
The WMU/WMed Academic Connection
The "WMU" in the query refers to his role at the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine (WMed). Since at least August 2021, Dr. Kakareka has held the position of Clinical Associate Professor. This is a crucial detail, as it confirms his ongoing commitment to medical education and the training of future physicians.
- What is a Clinical Associate Professor? This title signifies that he is a practicing physician who also teaches and mentors medical students and residents.
- Significance: His academic role ensures that the next generation of doctors benefits from his real-world clinical experience and expertise in neurosurgery.
Therefore, his presence at WMU is not purely administrative; it is an active contribution to the university's medical program while he maintains a rigorous surgical schedule.
Key Areas of Expertise and Clinical Focus
As a seasoned neurosurgeon, Dr. Kakareka manages a broad spectrum of neurological and spinal disorders. His clinical focus is on conditions that require surgical intervention, often involving complex and life-altering diagnoses. Understanding his specific areas of expertise is vital for patients seeking specialized care.
Focus on Complex Neurological Conditions
His top areas of expertise highlight a focus on both acute and chronic conditions affecting the brain and spine. These complex entities require a neurosurgeon with extensive experience and precision.
- Subdural Hematoma: A serious condition where blood collects between the surface of the brain and the dura mater, often requiring emergency surgery.
- Spinal Stenosis: The narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the nerves and lead to pain, numbness, or muscle weakness.
- Glioblastoma (GBM): One of the most aggressive types of cancer that occurs in the brain or spinal cord.
- Glioma: A common type of tumor that starts in the glial cells of the brain or spine.
His dedication to these challenging areas of neurosurgery underscores his passion for the field, which he has stated is "my passion and not just simply a job."
LSI Entities and Relevant Medical Terms
When researching Dr. Kakareka's practice, patients often encounter several related entities and medical terms that provide context to his work:
- Bronson Healthcare System: The primary hospital network where he practices, which is closely affiliated with WMed.
- Neurosurgical Practice: The specific type of surgical medicine he performs, focusing on the nervous system.
- Spine Surgery: A major component of neurosurgery, addressing issues like herniated discs, spinal tumors, and spinal cord injuries.
- Neurological Surgery Residency: The specialized, intensive training program he completed after medical school.
- Osteopathic Medicine (DO): His medical degree, which emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care, focusing on the body's interconnected systems.
In conclusion, Dr. Michael Kakareka, DO, is not only still practicing medicine but is an active, vital member of the medical community in Southwest Michigan. He continues to provide advanced neurosurgical care through the Bronson Neuroscience Center while contributing to the future of medicine through his Clinical Associate Professor role at WMed, solidifying his status as a key medical entity in the region.
Detail Author:
- Name : Vernie Rutherford
- Username : mikel27
- Email : ltillman@schmitt.com
- Birthdate : 1992-07-31
- Address : 2899 Crooks Parkways Libbyberg, CT 11357-1814
- Phone : +1 (303) 940-7883
- Company : Muller-Runolfsdottir
- Job : Agricultural Manager
- Bio : Occaecati sed velit magni. Voluptas aspernatur neque sint et laudantium. Distinctio reprehenderit dolor laudantium possimus. In ullam soluta veritatis magni.
Socials
twitter:
- url : https://twitter.com/garfieldhessel
- username : garfieldhessel
- bio : Voluptates maxime sit dolor eos sed. Quis aspernatur vero eaque dicta possimus iure. Et sed reiciendis voluptatem aut at.
- followers : 4731
- following : 2221
instagram:
- url : https://instagram.com/garfield.hessel
- username : garfield.hessel
- bio : Adipisci enim ut consectetur. Voluptatum officia qui sint natus. Non est qui quia soluta ea.
- followers : 1055
- following : 110
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/hessel1991
- username : hessel1991
- bio : Perspiciatis non placeat soluta.
- followers : 466
- following : 1877
tiktok:
- url : https://tiktok.com/@garfield6532
- username : garfield6532
- bio : Et rerum repudiandae facilis harum. Velit illum ipsa et expedita consequatur.
- followers : 5683
- following : 1320
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/garfield4361
- username : garfield4361
- bio : Ut ut id quis quia et. Laboriosam cupiditate sed sapiente non voluptatum.
- followers : 5605
- following : 166
