Ridgeview hospitals and clinics

10/20/2025

Jennifer Embry, MD, is now seeing patients at Western OB/GYN, A Division of Ridgeview Clinics. She sees patients at the Chaska and Waconia clinic locations.

Dr. Embry has special medical interests in menopause, adolescent gynecology, LGBTQ+ care, contraception, obstetrics, and minimally invasive and robotic surgeries. She advocates for wellness and is skilled at combining lifestyle changes with medications to treat
a wide variety of gynecological issues. Dr. Embry has specialized training in robotic surgery and transgender care.

Schedule a visit by calling 952.442.2137 or learn more about Dr. Embry at ridgeviewmedical.org/find-a-doctor/profile/jennifer-embry.

10/17/2025

Gabby Schmidt, North Mankato, is studying for her bachelor of science degree in nursing at Minnesota State University, Mankato. In August, she completed Ridgeview’s summer nurse internship program at the Le Sueur Campus. “I had a great summer completing my internship at Ridgeview. I met amazing people and participated in a variety of learning opportunities that prepared me for my future career as a nurse. The staff worked hard to ensure I gained a variety of experiences, and I am so grateful,” Gabby said.

Ridgeview offers internships for eligible nursing students who are currently enrolled in a Baccalaureate Degree Nursing program with graduation anticipated within 12 months of the internship. This paid internship is an excellent opportunity for students to gain experience, competency and confidence as they move into their nursing careers post-graduation. Applications will be accepted for Ridgeview’s next program beginning Oct. 31 and must be received no later than Dec. 19. Learn more at ridgeviewmedical.org/careers/nursing-opportunities

10/15/2025

"The nurses turned an incredibly difficult situation into something as gentle and compassionate as possible, caring for our son as if he had been born alive, just like any other baby." - Rachel Kasprick, Watertown.

In honor of World Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, Ridgeview offers our heartfelt support to those who have experienced this loss. For local pregnancy and infant loss resources, visit our website at ridgeviewmedical.org/care-treatment/obstetrics-gynecology/birthing-center/pregnancy-infant-loss-resources/

10/14/2025

Elliana Kopesky, Belle Plaine, was born with spina bifida, a birth defect where the spinal cord does not close completely during pregnancy. At just four months old, Elliana had surgery to detether her spinal cord, and by six months, she began physical therapy with Ridgeview’s Pediatric Rehab team. Now, at six years old, Elliana’s progress is a testament to the care, expertise and compassion provided by the Ridgeview team.

Elliana Kopesky, Belle Plaine, was born with spina bifida, a birth defect where the spinal cord does not close completely during pregnancy. At just four months old, Elliana had surgery to detether her spinal cord, and by six months, she began physical therapy with Ridgeview’s Pediatric Rehab team....

10/13/2025

"I have lost more than 90 pounds in 9 months — surpassing the expected weight loss by putting in the work!

After developing hypertension and prediabetes, I knew I had to do something to improve my overall health which led me to Bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery is definitely not the easy way out when it comes to weight loss. You have to make many life changes and choices to be successful. Dr. Baker has been great throughout this process. He is honest and upfront in discussing options and will support and encourage you along the way.

Since surgery, I've been able to come off all blood pressure medications, my A1C is within normal range, my body mass index is now average, and it has even helped my plantar fasciitis which has allowed me to exercise more. If you set your mind to it, take it week by week and do what is recommended, you will be successful." - LuAnn B.

Ridgeview's Bariatric & Weight Loss team is dedicated to your successful weight loss and long-term weight management. Call 952.442.7820 to schedule an appointment to discuss which program is best for you.

10/10/2025

October 10 is World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme is ‘access to services’ — which continues to be a priority at Ridgeview. Last April, we partnered with Allina Health to open a multifaceted Mental Health Services program located at Two Twelve Medical Center in Chaska. Today, our team has served patients with more than 1,700 visits across the outpatient clinic, adult day treatment/intensive outpatient care and partial hospitalization programs.

“Ridgeview’s new Mental Health program has made a significant impact in addressing a critical community need. Since its launch, we’ve supported more than 400 individuals, expanded access to care, and reduced common barriers like wait times. We’re proud to be building a foundation for long-term mental wellness in our community,” Heather Johnson, Director of Operations, Ridgeview.

To learn more, visit ridgeviewmedical.org/care-treatment/mental-health-care/

10/09/2025

A safe sleep environment is essential to reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). This month during SIDS Awareness Month, remember the ABCs of safe sleep: Alone, Back and Crib. For more information about safe sleep and Ridgeview's designation as a Gold Safe Sleep Hospital, visit ridgeviewmedical.org/birth

10/08/2025

Since 2023, Bill and Joan Goergen, Waconia, have generously given their time volunteering as transport escorts at Ridgeview Waconia Campus. Transport escorts provide information, directions and help transport patients to their destinations within the hospital. Combined, Bill and Joan have contributed 700 hours of service — and counting. Additionally, Bill also volunteers for Ridgeview’s hospice program, supporting terminally ill patients and their families.

“We’re both retired and wanted to find a meaningful way to give back to our community. I like to describe what we do as a series of small, helpful deeds throughout the day. It’s like when you’re walking down the street and someone drops something; when you pick it up and return it to them, it makes you both feel good. That’s how I feel over and over each day that I volunteer at Ridgeview. Those small gestures can be very important to someone and make a difference in their day,” Bill shared.

To learn more about open volunteer positions at Ridgeview, visit ridgeviewmedical.org/about-us/volunteer/volunteer-with-us/

10/07/2025

Get on the list! MyChart’s Fast Pass waitlist feature is another reason to sign up for MyChart. When scheduling an appointment via MyChart, you can request to be placed on an online wait list for an earlier appointment. If an earlier appointment becomes available, you will receive an email notification. Act promptly as the new appointment goes to the first person to accept it. You will then remain on the waitlist until another appointment becomes available.

A MyChart account is required to use this feature. To learn more or sign up for MyChart, visit www.ridgeviewmedical.org/mychart

10/06/2025

Congratulations to Ridgeview for being voted as “2025 Best of the West Lakes Area” in several health care services categories of the 2025 Laker Pioneer Readers’ Choice Survey.

+ Best clinic: Ridgeview Westonka Clinics
+ Best dermatologist: Ridgeview Dermatology practice
+ Best hospital: Ridgeview
+ Best OB/GYN: Western OB/GYN, A Division of Ridgeview Clinics
+ Best urgent care: Ridgeview Urgent Care, Waconia
+ Best emergency department: Two Twelve Medical Center
+ Best family practitioner: Krista Loop, MSN, CNP, FNP-C

To learn more, visit ridgeviewmedical.org/location/profile/ridgeview-westonka-clinic-spring-park

10/03/2025

Ridgeview is offering a free, six-week grief support group for those who have lost a loved one. Sessions begin Tuesday, Oct. 28, from 3 to 4:15 p.m. at the Ridgeview Professional Building, 560 S. Maple Street, Suite 222, Waconia. This group provides support, education and connection in an uplifting and safe environment. Registration is required as space is limited. A commitment to attending all sessions is strongly encouraged. Register by calling 952.777.4192.

10/02/2025

Looking for a new health care provider? Dillon Lundstrom, MD, cares for patients at Ridgeview Clinics in Delano. As a family medicine provider, Dr. Lundstrom sees patients for wellness visits, acute illness, prenatal care, children’s health and management of complex chronic conditions.

Same- and next-day appointments are often available. To schedule, visit https://mychart.ridgeviewmedical.org/ridgeviewmychart/Openscheduling/Standalone?id=2276