Alton Memorial Hospital

Alton Memorial Hospital Since 1937, Alton Memorial Hospital has cared for residents in Alton, Illinois and the surrounding communities in a five-county area.

Alton Memorial Hospital is a 179 licensed bed, full-service community hospital offering emergency and critical care services as well as medical, surgical and obstetrics along with a full complement of diagnostic and treatment services. A land gift to the community from the Smith family, Alton Memorial today is a full-service acute-care hospital. Alton Memorial offers patients a variety of inpatient and outpatient services, including surgery services, medical imaging, interventional and diagnostic heart services, cancer care, rehabilitation, 24-hour emergency care, ambulance services and more.

We are excited to welcome Brandy Byrd, FNP-C, a certified family nurse practitioner specializing in Gastroenterology, to...
12/19/2025

We are excited to welcome Brandy Byrd, FNP-C, a certified family nurse practitioner specializing in Gastroenterology, to BJC Medical Group Gastroenterology at Alton.

Brandy became a nurse practitioner to better serve her patients and help them live higher-quality lives. She was drawn to specialize in digestive care because it allows her to impact a person's health in so many ways—from providing daily comfort to performing lifesaving screenings.

"I enjoy making people feel better," Brandy shares, "and helping with early diagnosis that can prolong life and enhance the quality of life for my patients."

Brandy is committed to ensuring every patient feels truly heard, building her practice on a foundation of compassion and collaboration. She believes patient education is key—by actively listening and providing clear explanations, she helps her patients feel safe, comfortable, and confident in their treatment plans.

In her practice, Brandy treats patients ages 18 and older, managing a wide range of conditions including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, gallstones, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). She also assists with colorectal cancer screenings and endoscopies.

A St. Louis native, Brandy loves spending time with her husband and daughters. You can often find her camping with her family, reading, or exploring new restaurants and traveling.

Learn more about Brandy and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/gBJmpx

We’re proud to recognize Kathy as our December Employee of the Month! 🌟Kathy is known for the compassionate, non-judgmen...
12/12/2025

We’re proud to recognize Kathy as our December Employee of the Month! 🌟

Kathy is known for the compassionate, non-judgmental support she provides to pregnant and postpartum women on the Alton Memorial Hospital OB floor. She takes time to understand each patient’s needs, connect them with resources, and empower them to manage their own care.

She also builds strong relationships with community partners to help meet the needs of the vulnerable populations she serves. Patients and staff consistently recognize her for her caring demeanor and dedication.

One nominator shared that Kathy “is truly a blessing to both her team and our organization,” while another praised her for consistently going above and beyond.

Thank you, Kathy, for the meaningful impact you make every day! ❤️

12/12/2025

We're expecting cold temperatures this weekend! ❄️

If you need a place to stay warm, check out United Way of Greater St. Louis' list of warming stations in our area: https://heyor.ca/8d5jUU

Congratulations to our November Employee of the Month, Callie! 🌟Callie has been doing hand therapy at Alton Memorial Hos...
12/10/2025

Congratulations to our November Employee of the Month, Callie! 🌟

Callie has been doing hand therapy at Alton Memorial Hospital for several years, and patients know they’re in good hands the moment they meet her. She sees a wide range of cases, including complex situations, and always ensures patients can begin therapy in a timely manner to support the best possible outcome.

Her co-workers say that no matter how busy the day is, “there will be laughter and patients praising her during their treatment sessions.” Callie’s patients love her, and it shows when you overhear her talking with them—she is comforting, positive, and focused on making sure every patient feels cared for.

Callie’s compassion and commitment make a meaningful difference every day, and we are proud to recognize her. 🩷

U.S. News and World Report has recognized Alton Memorial Hospital as a 2026 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care!...
12/09/2025

U.S. News and World Report has recognized Alton Memorial Hospital as a 2026 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care! 🎉

Alton Memorial earned a High Performing designation—the highest possible award—in recognition of our excellence in care for expectant parents.

Alton Memorial Hospital was also recognized as a 2026 Maternity Care Access Hospital—a designation recognizing essential hospitals serving communities that would be in danger of becoming maternity deserts if they were to stop providing crucial maternity care services.

“Alton Memorial is an accredited Baby-Friendly Hospital, with an extensively trained staff in the latest mother–baby care, bonding, and infant practices—but our care extends to the whole family,” says David Braasch, Alton Memorial president. “We focus on the needs of all family members from pregnancy to labor and delivery because every family is unique. Our team is committed to providing personalized care to everyone who comes through our doors for the birth of a child.”

Congratulations to all of our incredible team members who play a role in caring for our littlest patients—your expertise and compassion made this possible!

Learn more about the recognition: https://heyor.ca/7kQQEk

Congratulations to Lauren, RN, a nurse at Alton Memorial Hospital, for being our newest DAISY Foundation Award winner! 🎉...
12/08/2025

Congratulations to Lauren, RN, a nurse at Alton Memorial Hospital, for being our newest DAISY Foundation Award winner! 🎉 🌼

Lauren was nominated by a patient who described her as extraordinarily compassionate, attentive, and supportive during a difficult hospital stay.

The patient shared that Lauren created space for honesty and healing during a difficult conversation about past traumas and personal struggles. She listened without judgement, moved quickly to coordinate care, and ensured the patient's comfort every step of the way.

Inspired by Lauren’s compassion, the patient wrote, “Lauren is an excellent example of who I want to be when I become a nurse.”

Thank you Lauren for the way you care for our patients. Alton Memorial Hospital is lucky to have you! 💛

We are excited to welcome Emily Hutchinson, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group at Pro...
11/29/2025

We are excited to welcome Emily Hutchinson, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group at Progress West–Primary Care.

A concussion in high school began Dr. Hutchinson's path to medicine. She was moved by her doctors, who explained her condition in a way that put her at ease. “That experience opened my eyes to how much of an impact a good physician can have on patients,” she shares. “It inspired me to pursue a career where I could help others the same way my doctors helped me.”

Dr. Hutchinson was drawn to family medicine for the opportunity to care for patients of all ages and backgrounds, valuing the continuity and long-term relationships that develop over time.

These meaningful relationships are what she finds most rewarding. Supporting individuals and families through different stages of life allows her to better understand their needs and provide more meaningful health support. Dr. Hutchinson finds it incredibly rewarding to see patients meet their health goals—a result of their hard work—and to know she played a part in that success.

In her practice, Dr. Hutchinson provides an evidence-based, patient-focused approach that considers all factors affecting health and wellness. She offers a full range of services, including preventive care (annual physicals for infants through seniors, screenings, immunizations, and well-woman exams), management of acute and chronic health issues like common illnesses, injuries, skin conditions, mental health concerns, diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, migraines, and joint pain, along with family planning and contraception counseling.

Originally from St. Louis, Dr. Hutchinson enjoys exploring local spots around Missouri and Illinois, traveling, trying new restaurants and recipes, and spending time outdoors with her husband and their mini Australian Shepherd, Leo.

Learn more about Dr. Hutchinson and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/qLHB4S

We’re excited to celebrate Jamie, a supervisor of respiratory care and Alton Memorial Hospital’s 2025 PHIL Award recipie...
11/28/2025

We’re excited to celebrate Jamie, a supervisor of respiratory care and Alton Memorial Hospital’s 2025 PHIL Award recipient! 🏆

The PHIL (Pulmonary Health and Illness of the Lung) Award is the only nationally recognized hospital award that honors outstanding respiratory therapists (RTs).

Jamie is known for going above and beyond for both patients and colleagues. Her leadership has strengthened the RTs role in OB and the Nursery, making RTs a consistent and vital part of care for mothers and newborns. This work has created meaningful improvements in outcomes for some of our most fragile patients.

Jamie leads with professionalism, creativity, and heart. She identifies opportunities to improve care, builds collaboration across disciplines, and encourages others to grow. She does not wait to be asked. She steps in, supports the team, and brings grace and excellence to everything she does.

It is with pride and gratitude that we recognize Jamie for her dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to exceptional patient care. Congratulations, Jamie! 🩷

We are thrilled to welcome Farah Sharieh, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group Family M...
11/26/2025

We are thrilled to welcome Farah Sharieh, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group Family Medicine at Belleville Memorial.

Her passion for helping others is deeply rooted in her experiences growing up and watching her mom fill the role of caregiver for her ailing grandma. Later, when Dr. Sharieh’s mother developed chronic illnesses, she was inspired to become a doctor because she wanted to know how to better care for her loved ones.

Drawn to family medicine by the wide range of health problems she could help people with, Dr. Sharieh also finds joy in developing long-term, trusting relationships with patients of all ages. She strives to improve lives, step by step—solving clinical puzzles and actively listening to patients’ experiences with their treatment. She is proudest when patients share the positive impact she has had on their lives.

Dr. Sharieh offers comprehensive preventive services, including annual physicals, well-woman exams, and health screenings. She also provides obstetric care and contraception counseling and treats chronic conditions such as asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and mental health issues.

Originally from Jordan, Dr. Sharieh enjoys spending quality time with her family, trying new activities, and visiting new places together. Her hobbies include cycling, kayaking, playing PlayStation with her husband, and recently taking an interest in discovering Missouri’s natural parks and caves.

Learn more about Dr. Sharieh and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/mIRxOW

Following 30 years of pain, a Fredericktown firefighter's only regret after total knee replacement is not doing it soone...
11/25/2025

Following 30 years of pain, a Fredericktown firefighter's only regret after total knee replacement is not doing it sooner.

Russell, a tough, active man who splits his time between fighting fires and working in a cobalt mine, originally injured his knee in a basketball accident at age 26. For years, he adjusted his active life around the pain, giving up pieces of himself. But the injury wasn’t done with him. The constant wear led to severe arthritis and bone grinding, finally forcing him to seek help.

Jesse Beard, DO, a BJC Medical Group orthopedic surgeon at Parkland Health Center, confirmed that Russell needed a total knee replacement.

Russell chose to move forward, and the results were immediate: “That evening I was up and walking on it,” he says. “It totally amazed me.”

Though rehabilitation was challenging, with the help of BJC Home Care, Russell was able to receive exercises designed to improve his strength and range of motion at home until he was strong enough to attend outpatient rehab sessions.

Today, at 56, he has reclaimed his active life. He says that now climbing ladders is a lot easier, he can jump and squat down, and he can do a lot more with his 3-year-old grandson.

Russell has only one regret: "Not doing this surgery sooner."

If lingering pain is holding you back from the job, hobbies, or family moments you love, advanced relief like Russell’s is possible at Parkland Health Center.

Read Russell’s full story and learn how you can connect with the BJC Medical Group Orthopedics team at Parkland Health Center: https://heyor.ca/ZR0GQq

Let all Oz be agreed, they’re wickedly adorable through and through. 💚 From the moment we laid eyes on them, these littl...
11/24/2025

Let all Oz be agreed, they’re wickedly adorable through and through. 💚

From the moment we laid eyes on them, these little ones had our hearts defying gravity. Every little kick, however small, feels like dancing through life. They're simply wonderful, and their future is unlimited. Their parents couldn’t be happier. And soon they’ll be flying home on their brooms and bubbles because, after all, there’s no place like home.

Because we knew you, sweet babies, we have been changed for good.

Please always remember safe sleep practices. Babies should sleep on their backs, alone in a crib, with no loose blankets or toys. Thank you to our wonderful nursing team for closely watching our babies during this photo session!

We are thrilled to welcome Ashley Osborn, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group Primary ...
11/21/2025

We are thrilled to welcome Ashley Osborn, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group Primary Care at Edwardsville.

Growing up, Dr. Osborn would tell anyone who would listen that she wanted to be a doctor. "As I got older," she shares, "that childhood dream evolved into a deeper understanding of what it means to care for others." As the first person in her family to go to college, the opportunity to realize this goal was especially meaningful. Her desire to help people in tangible, lasting ways—combined with her fascination for how the human body worked—ultimately led her to Family Medicine, where she can listen, educate, and advocate for her patients.

She loves Family Medicine because she gets to care for the whole person, not just one part or one problem. "You become such a big part of their lives,” Dr. Osborn says, "It is so fulfilling to know they trust you to care for them and their families through every stage of life."

Originally from Collinsville and now living in Glen Carbon, Dr. Osborn is especially proud to be practicing medicine in the area where she grew up. "I understand the values, pace, and personality of the people here because I’ve lived it myself,” she explains. “For me, there’s something special about caring for the people who feel like neighbors." She plans to stay here long-term, raise a family, and give back to the community that helped shape her.

Seeing patients of all ages, Dr. Osborn provides continuous, personalized care by considering the whole person—stress, lifestyle, and emotional health. Her comprehensive services include preventive care such as annual physicals, well-woman exams, vaccinations, and sick visits. She manages both acute and chronic health issues like injuries, illnesses, diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep disorders, and musculoskeletal issues. Additionally, Dr. Osborn offers women’s health services, including family planning and contraception counseling, along with osteopathic manipulation treatments (OMT).

Outside of medicine, Dr. Osborn and her husband live with their aussiedoodle, Millie. She enjoys reading and looks forward to her monthly book club with friends and spending quality time with family. “Family means everything to us, and we’re lucky to have both sides of our family close by.”

Learn more about Dr. Osborn and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/kHEodx

We are thrilled to welcome Ashley Osborn, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group Primary ...
11/21/2025

We are thrilled to welcome Ashley Osborn, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group Primary Care at Edwardsville.

Growing up, Dr. Osborn would tell anyone who would listen that she wanted to be a doctor. "As I got older," she shares, "that childhood dream evolved into a deeper understanding of what it means to care for others." As the first person in her family to go to college, the opportunity to realize this goal was especially meaningful. Her desire to help people in tangible, lasting ways—combined with her fascination for how the human body worked—ultimately led her to Family Medicine, where she can listen, educate, and advocate for her patients.

She loves Family Medicine because she gets to care for the whole person, not just one part or one problem. "You become such a big part of their lives,” Dr. Osborn says, "It is so fulfilling to know they trust you to care for them and their families through every stage of life."

Originally from Collinsville and now living in Glen Carbon, Dr. Osborn is especially proud to be practicing medicine in the area where she grew up. "I understand the values, pace, and personality of the people here because I’ve lived it myself,” she explains. “For me, there’s something special about caring for the people who feel like neighbors." She plans to stay here long-term, raise a family, and give back to the community that helped shape her.

Seeing patients of all ages, Dr. Osborn provides continuous, personalized care by considering the whole person—stress, lifestyle, and emotional health. Her comprehensive services include preventive care such as annual physicals, well-woman exams, vaccinations, and sick visits. She manages both acute and chronic health issues like injuries, illnesses, diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep disorders, and musculoskeletal issues. Additionally, Dr. Osborn offers women’s health services, including family planning and contraception counseling, along with osteopathic manipulation treatments (OMT).

Outside of medicine, Dr. Osborn and her husband live with their aussiedoodle, Millie. She enjoys reading and looks forward to her monthly book club with friends and spending quality time with family. “Family means everything to us, and we’re lucky to have both sides of our family close by.”

Learn more about Dr. Osborn and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/kHEodx

Congratulations to Joel, a public safety officer at Alton Memorial Hospital, for being recognized as the Employee of the...
11/20/2025

Congratulations to Joel, a public safety officer at Alton Memorial Hospital, for being recognized as the Employee of the Month! 🎉

Joel is known for always being willing to step in, support staff, and help patients however he can. One nomination shared, “Joel is a treat to work with. He is always so helpful in the ER and just pleasant to work with. He always goes above and beyond to help out.” Another added, “Joel is very observant and always willing to help in any way he can. All of the ER staff are grateful when he is working.”

Whether assisting with patient care, helping during emergencies, or answering questions for visitors, Joel consistently shows kindness and teamwork. Thank you Joel for making such a positive impact at Alton Memorial Hospital! 👏

We are thrilled to welcome Farah Chohan, MD, an internal medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group Primary Care at Northw...
11/17/2025

We are thrilled to welcome Farah Chohan, MD, an internal medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group Primary Care at Northwest HealthCare.

While growing up in Pakistan, Dr. Chohan always looked up to her mother, an anesthesiologist and ICU doctor. Her mother's dedication to helping others inspired her own career — "The apple didn't fall far from the tree!"

Although her family specialized in critical care (her brother works in critical pulmonology), Dr. Chohan found her own calling in internal medicine. She was drawn by the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients and truly get to know them, focusing on both prevention and healing.

"I’m driven by preventive care," she shares. "I love being able to identify potential health issues early and take steps to prevent them, especially with all the new treatments available." Coming from a resource-limited country, Dr. Chohan appreciates the life-changing difference prevention can make for patients.

Her journey, which included balancing residency with motherhood—both her children were born during her residency—has shaped her compassionate approach. What Dr. Chohan enjoys most about her practice is ensuring accessible care for all members of the community and making a meaningful difference in their health. She offers comprehensive, patient-centered care that combines evidence-based medicine to improve patients' quality of life.

Seeing patients 18 and older, Dr. Chohan provides preventive care, including annual wellness exams, vaccinations, and health screenings. She treats acute issues like colds and infections, and expertly manages chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, asthma, and heart disease, along with nutrition counseling and weight management.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Chohan switches into mom mode, enjoying quality time with her husband and two young children while exploring St. Louis. She also has a creative side that she expresses through photography and art, capturing nature's beauty through color, design, and detail.

Learn more about Dr. Chohan and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/sgL8iQ

We are thrilled to welcome Sejal Patel, FNP-C, a certified family nurse practitioner specializing in gastroenterology, t...
11/14/2025

We are thrilled to welcome Sejal Patel, FNP-C, a certified family nurse practitioner specializing in gastroenterology, to the BJC Medical Group Gastroenterology at St. Peters team.

Sejal has always wanted to be a nurse, motivated by her positive attitude and generous heart to help others. She took the next step in her career to become a nurse practitioner to gain the flexibility and opportunity to work in diverse settings and provide care for a wide variety of patients.

What motivates Sejal most is the chance to combine compassion with science, caring for patients while constantly learning. She is driven to be there for people during their most vulnerable moments, offering not just medical care, but also comfort and understanding.

“I remember a patient who was anxious and struggling during treatment,” she shared. “By taking the time to listen, reassure, and explain each step clearly, I watched their confidence grow day by day. When they finally improved and thanked me with a smile, I felt an incredible sense of fulfillment.”

Sejal is fascinated by gastroenterology. “Digestive disorders can deeply affect patients,” she explained. “It touches nearly every aspect of human health—what we eat, how we absorb nutrients, and how our gut interacts with the rest of the body. Treating these conditions can restore normalcy and dignity.”

Seeing patients 18 and older, Sejal manages a variety of GI conditions, including GERD, irritable bowel syndrome, functional constipation/diarrhea, diverticulitis, pancreatitis, and liver diseases. She adopts a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, focusing on uncovering the root causes of issues and is dedicated to being an advocate, educator, and partner throughout a patient’s journey toward better health.

Outside of caring for patients, Sejal is passionate about experiencing new cultures, which she does through travel—having already visited over 30 countries! She and her husband are enthusiastic "foodies" who enjoy sampling a variety of ethnic cuisines. When she's home, she loves spending time with family and friends and catching up on a good television series.

Learn more about Sejal and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/MBipFB

We are excited to welcome Grace Triska, DO, a board-certified internal medicine physician, to the BJC Medical Group team...
11/12/2025

We are excited to welcome Grace Triska, DO, a board-certified internal medicine physician, to the BJC Medical Group team at Barnes West Medical Consultants.

Dr. Triska, a native of St. Louis, was inspired to become a doctor by her grandfather, a well-loved pediatrician. To this day, she still hears so many stories from his patients about the impact he made on their lives. "I hope to be able to give my patients the excellent care and kindness that he gave to so many.”

She chose internal medicine because she thrives on piecing together all facets of an individual’s health to create a personalized plan for them. Day to day, what keeps her excited is the constant collaboration—communicating with patients, their families, and specialists to coordinate patient care. "I am motivated to help my patients fully understand recommendations from specialists,” Dr. Triska says, “and find a meaningful and organized approach to addressing their needs and doing what is best for their health." She empowers patients by building honest, trusting, and respectful relationships and involving them in shared decision-making.

Dr. Triska treats patients 18 and older, combining a strong focus on preventive care and evidence-based medicine. Her comprehensive services include annual physicals, well-woman exams, vaccinations, and cancer screenings. She manages a wide variety of acute and chronic issues, including diabetes, arthritis, asthma, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart failure, and anemia. She also provides specialized care for headaches and migraines, prescribes weight-loss medications, and offers education for stroke prevention.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Triska’s free time is happily spent with her family and two golden retrievers. She enjoys traveling, especially to mountains for hiking. This time of year, she can be found cheering on Notre Dame football and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Learn more about Dr. Triska and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/xyWTRz

We are pleased to welcome Faith Maduka, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician, to the team at BJC Medical Grou...
11/10/2025

We are pleased to welcome Faith Maduka, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician, to the team at BJC Medical Group Primary Care at Edwardsville.

Dr. Maduka's passion for medicine was shaped by growing up with a younger brother who had medical needs and in a community where access to care wasn’t always easy. These moments fueled her desire to care for others. She chose family medicine because it allows her to work with patients of all ages—from babies to grandparents—and focus on both prevention and healing.

As a provider, Dr. Maduka loves building lasting relationships and serving as a trusted partner for patients and their families throughout their lives. She is motivated by helping patients feel confident about their health and seeing them achieve their goals. Dr. Maduka shares, "Some of my favorite moments are when patients return healthier and happier after we’ve worked together on a plan—those wins are truly meaningful."

Caring for patients of all ages, including children, adults, and seniors, Dr. Maduka offers a comprehensive range of preventive services, including annual physicals, well-woman exams, prenatal care, and vaccinations. She also manages a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, such as allergies, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, injuries, and mental health concerns.

Originally from Missouri, Dr. Maduka values family and community. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with her loved ones.

Learn more about Dr. Maduka and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/W3Bq5w

We are pleased to welcome Faith Maduka, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician, to the team at BJC Medical Grou...
11/10/2025

We are pleased to welcome Faith Maduka, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician, to the team at BJC Medical Group Primary Care at Edwardsville.

Dr. Maduka's passion for medicine was shaped by growing up with a younger brother who had medical needs and in a community where access to care wasn’t always easy. These moments fueled her desire to care for others. She chose family medicine because it allows her to work with patients of all ages—from babies to grandparents—and focus on both prevention and healing.

As a provider, Dr. Maduka loves building lasting relationships and serving as a trusted partner for patients and their families throughout their lives. She is motivated by helping patients feel confident about their health and seeing them achieve their goals. Dr. Maduka shares, "Some of my favorite moments are when patients return healthier and happier after we’ve worked together on a plan—those wins are truly meaningful."

Caring for patients of all ages, including children, adults, and seniors, Dr. Maduka offers a comprehensive range of preventive services, including annual physicals, well-woman exams, prenatal care, and vaccinations. She also manages a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, such as allergies, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, injuries, and mental health concerns.

Originally from Missouri, Dr. Maduka values family and community. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with her loved ones.

Learn more about Dr. Maduka and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/W3Bq5w

We are pleased to welcome James Wendell, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group at O'Fall...
11/07/2025

We are pleased to welcome James Wendell, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group at O'Fallon.

Dr. Wendell's drive to practice medicine began during a medical mission to Honduras, where he witnessed the impact that care made in the lives of those they helped. His experiences in medical school inspired him to become a Family Medicine physician to build meaningful, long-term patient relationships.

His commitment to patient trust produced one of his proudest moments: After successfully treating a patient, the patient's entire family switched to him as their doctor because of the confidence they placed in his care.

What keeps Dr. Wendell motivated is his passion for helping patients take an active role in their health: "I'm motivated to help my patients live healthy lives by moving their bodies and staying curious about their health by asking the question 'why?'" He enjoys the intellectual challenge of figuring out the problems in medicine and helping patients through that process.

Dr. Wendell offers comprehensive, personalized care for patients of all ages, from infants to seniors. This includes preventive services like annual physicals, women’s health services, and vaccinations. He treats a wide range of conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, asthma, and mental health concerns, and also assists with addiction recovery. His holistic approach includes using osteopathic manipulative therapy to enhance his treatment plans.

Originally from Eagle, Idaho, Dr. Wendell practices what he preaches by staying active with weightlifting, hiking, and playing soccer. He also enjoys skiing, reading, and exploring the outdoors, as well as playing video, board, and card games.

Learn more about Dr. Wendell and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/nUnG8Z

Last fall, 65-year-old Pam took a trip with her sister to North Carolina, but she struggled to keep up. Pam’s osteoarthr...
11/06/2025

Last fall, 65-year-old Pam took a trip with her sister to North Carolina, but she struggled to keep up. Pam’s osteoarthritis—where cartilage wears down and bones painfully rub together—made everyday activities, including walking, agonizing.

“I couldn’t do the things I wanted to do with my sister, 10 grandchildren, and my great-grandchild,” Pam says. “The pain I was having made everything harder.”

Pam sought care from Anthony Berni, MD, a BJC Medical Group orthopedic surgeon at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital. Dr. Berni suggested knee replacement, recommending the procedure be performed with robotic assistance.

This modern approach uses a robotic arm, sensors, and software to help Dr. Berni create a personalized surgical plan and identify the perfect size implant. As Dr. Berni explains, "This level of accuracy in implant placement can lead to improved joint function, a more natural feel, and potentially a quicker, smoother recovery."

Pam was initially nervous, but was made to feel completely at ease thanks to the supportive care team. "Dr. Berni was amazing. He explained everything clearly, listened to my concerns, and made me feel confident I was in the best hands possible."

Today, Pam is walking pain-free, enjoying the outdoors, and making up for lost time. She’s planning a second trip with her sister, and she can’t wait to fully enjoy it.

Read the full story of how Pam is walking strong again after her knee replacement: https://heyor.ca/tFqvYT

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One Memorial Drive
Alton, IL
62002

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