Northwest HealthCare

10/09/2025

We are excited to welcome Kamaal Hicks, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group Primary Care at Alton.

Dr. Hicks's calling to medicine began with his family: Both his parents, who immigrated from the Caribbean at a young age, were nurses. He spent his childhood around hospitals, inspired by the compassionate care he witnessed.

Having worked hard to make his dream of becoming a doctor a reality, he views being a physician as a profound privilege and a lifelong passion. His love for biology and volunteer work cemented his commitment to serving his community as a dedicated physician.

He chose family medicine because it constantly keeps him challenged and offers the unique honor of caring for patients throughout their lives. He loves the complexity of his work—from patient interactions and collaboration with specialists to the science of the human body. Driven by a mission of prevention, Dr. Hicks views it as his ultimate goal to ensure his patients' health does not become a barrier to having a good life.

Dr. Hicks treats patients of all ages and holds an additional board certification in women’s health. He offers comprehensive services, including annual wellness exams, pediatrics, well-woman exams, low-risk obstetrical care, and deliveries. He also manages a wide range of conditions and performs procedures like joint injections, skin biopsies, and contraception counseling, and also prescribes weight-loss medications.

Outside of the clinic, he enjoys spending quality time with family and watching and playing sports. Originally from Canada, Dr. Hicks is excited to immerse himself in the St. Louis sports scene and support the St. Louis Blues. Growing up a big baseball fan, he's also looking forward to joining the St. Louis Cardinals fandom.

Learn more about Dr. Hicks and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/M9DUwn

10/01/2025

We're thrilled to welcome Morgan DeLozier, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician, to BJC Medical Group Family Medicine at O'Fallon, IL.

Dr. DeLozier's lifelong calling in medicine was inspired by the compassion of her own primary care provider growing up. This led her to focus on building long-standing relationships with patients and guiding them through every stage of life. She is passionate about preventive care and sees her greatest reward as working collaboratively with a patient to meet their health goals.

As a provider, she prioritizes compassion and mutual respect. She dedicates time to thoroughly discussing all care options to ensure patients fully understand before finalizing a mutual treatment plan. Dr. DeLozier cares for patients of all ages—from infants to seniors—and offers comprehensive preventive services, manages common conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, and assists with family planning.

Originally from Tennessee, Dr. DeLozier enjoys reading, spending time with her husband and dog, and being outdoors—especially visiting national parks. She looks forward to meeting new people in the O'Fallon community.

Learn more about Dr. DeLozier and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/AEOsZ2

09/26/2025

Meet Amanda Michaels, NP, an invaluable member of our BJC Medical Group Family Physicians of Bethalto team.

As a Nurse Practitioner—one of the many highly skilled clinicians that make up our Advanced Practice Provider (APP) team—Amanda is critical to our mission of providing extraordinary care.

Amanda embodied this commitment by stepping up to cover for a colleague on leave, ensuring patients never miss a beat in their care. On top of that, she consistently goes above and beyond, earning glowing feedback from patients, keeping charting and documentation on track, and always making herself available to support the team.

Her peers describe her as the one everyone can count on—hardworking, compassionate, and deeply dedicated to her patients.

This APP Week, we're proud to celebrate Amanda and all our APPs for the vital difference you make every single day.

09/26/2025

We are excited to welcome Kayla Everding, DNP, FNP, a certified nurse practitioner, to BJC Medical Group Neurology Associates at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

For Kayla, the decision to pursue nursing was made long ago.

"Since I was a little kid, I knew I always wanted to be a nurse," said Kayla. "I knew I loved helping and taking care of others."

This passion led her to a student externship on MoBap’s neurology floor, where she found her calling. She returned to the same floor after graduation, spending six years as a staff RN before transitioning to her new role as a nurse practitioner.

Today, Kayla still loves helping people feel their best. She knows that a trip to the hospital can be one of the scariest moments in a person's life and finds pride in helping patients through that difficult time. She is also motivated by the ever-changing health care field, embracing new tools and resources to help more people than ever before.

Kayla treats adult patients 18 years and older for a wide range of general neurology conditions, including migraines, headache syndromes, tremors, stroke, seizure disorders, and neuropathy. She also administers Botox® for migraines.

A St. Louis native and a new mom, Kayla is currently embracing her most exciting role yet. When she's not caring for her patients, she cherishes time with her family, friends, and her dog, Oakley. She also loves fall—because it is football season—and is a proud Kansas City Chiefs fan.

Learn more about Kayla and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/d775ev

09/25/2025

This week, we're honoring our exceptional Advanced Practice Providers (APPs)! 💙

Robert Dizes, PA-C, MPAS, is a board-certified family medicine physician assistant at BJC Medical Group Primary Care at Shiloh and has been with BJC for 26 years.

Robert’s health care journey began with the U.S. Air Force in 1979, where he trained as a medic. From suturing to triaging in trauma situations, his dedication and desire to learn led him to become a physician assistant. With more than 40 years of experience, Robert offers not only clinical skill, but also a special talent for connecting with patients on a personal level.

“Being able to effectively communicate with a patient and make an instant connection puts them at ease," said Robert. "They put their trust in your hands, and we get the opportunity to help them make life changes in their health."

From caring for American hostages in the early 1980s to performing life-saving mountain rescues, supporting Hurricane Katrina victims, serving as Medical Director at the NCAA Wrestling Tournament, and even completing an Ironman at 57, Robert’s career has been filled with remarkable moments.

We're grateful for Robert and all our amazing APPs for the difference they make every day. Thank you for your dedication to advancing care and improving lives across BJC HealthCare.

09/17/2025

We are excited to welcome Landry Crabtree, DNP, WHNP-BC, a board-certified women’s health nurse practitioner, to BJC Medical Group at Alton OBGYN Associates at Edwardsville.

Landry’s interest in women’s health developed in nursing school, where she became inspired to help women navigate each stage of life with confidence. She was motivated to specialize in a field where she could empower women with knowledge and address their unique health challenges.

As a health care provider, she is passionate about patient education and enjoys building lasting relationships. She considers it a privilege to be part of her patients’ journeys, providing personalized and compassionate care that promotes lifelong health and helps them navigate each stage of life with confidence.

Landry sees patients ages 13 and older and provides a full range of services, including annual well-woman exams, contraception counseling, family planning, prenatal and postnatal care, as well as breastfeeding and lactation support. She also treats conditions such as heavy or painful menstrual cycles, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), sexually transmitted infections, and urinary tract infections.

Originally from St. Louis, Landry enjoys reading, taking walks, spending time with family and friends, and attending St. Louis Blues hockey games.

Learn more about Landry and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/8juGZa

09/15/2025

We are thrilled to welcome Michael Butler II, MD, a board-certified neurologist with additional certifications in epilepsy and neuromuscular medicine, to BJC Medical Group Neurology Associates at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

Dr. Butler combines medical expertise with empathy to provide exceptional care to his patients. He specializes in managing a range of seizure disorders, epilepsy, and other neuromuscular conditions.

Using advanced diagnostic techniques like EEG, EMG, NCS, and EP studies, Dr. Butler provides personalized treatment plans. Additionally, he administers Botox® for migraines.

Originally from Georgia, Dr. Butler loves exploring St. Louis and spending time with his family and friends.

Learn more about Dr. Butler and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/mJS4al

09/12/2025

We are excited to welcome Alfred Nelson, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist, to BJC Medical Group Gastroenterology at St. Peters.

Dr. Nelson brings a unique specialization in neurogastroenterology and neurogastromotility; meaning he's an expert in the vital connection between your brain and your gut, and how nerve signals govern your digestive system.

With this advanced training, Dr. Nelson provides exceptional care for a wide range of conditions, including gastrointestinal bleed, difficulty swallowing, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastroparesis, cirrhosis, hepatitis B and C, and acute and chronic pancreatitis. He also performs colorectal cancer screenings, colonoscopies, and upper endoscopies.

Dr. Nelson is passionate about improving his patients' quality of life with compassionate care, treating every patient with the same consideration and attention he would give to his own family.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Nelson loves spending time with his family and enjoys watching sports, especially the Kansas City Chiefs, Formula One racing, and Real Madrid Soccer Club.

Learn more about Dr. Nelson and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/DA4atV

09/10/2025

We are excited to welcome Laura Niboh, MSN, APRN, WHNP-BC, a board-certified women’s health nurse practitioner to the BJC Medical Group West End OBGYN team.

Laura discovered her passion for caring for those in need while growing up watching her mother’s devotion to the elderly. This early inspiration guided her to a career in nursing, where her love of caring for babies in the NICU evolved into becoming an advocate for their mothers as well. Laura’s experiences in labor and delivery reaffirmed her commitment to providing compassionate care for women.

As a health care provider, Laura values caring for her patients from a holistic lens, addressing both their physical and emotional well-being. Her drive comes from knowing that her knowledge and advocacy can make a meaningful difference in someone's story. Her goal is for her patients to feel genuinely listened to, respected, and supported through all the milestones and chapters of their lives.

Laura sees patients ages 13 and older and provides a full range of OB-GYN services, including annual well-woman exams, contraception counseling, family planning, and prenatal and postnatal care. She also performs cancer screenings, treats various conditions, and handles the placement and removal of birth control.

Originally from Cameroon, Africa, Laura is an active member of her church who enjoys spending time with family and friends. She also loves to travel, try new foods from different cultures, and get lost in a good book.

Learn more about Laura and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/89EtaO

09/09/2025

Congratulations to Jeremy Pfeffer, RN, from BJC Medical Group Cardiology at Sunset Hills, our latest recipient of the DAISY Award! 🌟 This honor celebrates nurses who embody our values of Kindness, Respect, Excellence, Safety, and Teamwork.

Jeremy was nominated for his outstanding dedication to the cardiology team. His outreach has played a key role in its significant growth over the past two years, all while continuing to provide excellent care to patients.

Congratulations, Jeremy, on your well-deserved DAISY Award. Your commitment makes a huge difference for both your patients and team every day.

If there is a BJC Medical Group nurse that you would like to recognize, we encourage you to submit a DAISY Award nomination: https://www.bjcmedicalgroup.org/DAISY

08/28/2025

We are excited to welcome Alisa Kindig, WHNP-BC, a board-certified women's health nurse practitioner, to our team at OB/GYN Associates at Sunset Hills.

Driven by a desire for a career with a deeper purpose, Alisa went back to school to become a nurse after eight years in corporate America. She was inspired to specialize in women's health after working in the Emergency Department, where she saw a gap in care, as many women were seeking urgent treatment for health concerns that could have been managed in a routine office setting.

Today, her philosophy is focused on educating women and helping them feel better and more confident in their care. Alisa is proudest when a patient reports they feel better than they have in years because, together, they found a solution that works.

Alisa provides a wide range of OB-GYN services for patients 13 years and older. She specializes in annual well-woman exams, contraception counseling, family planning, and treating conditions like abnormal bleeding, PCOS, and sexually transmitted infections.

Originally from Iowa, Alisa is a foodie who loves trying out new restaurants. She also enjoys watching St. Louis Cardinals and St. Louis City SC games and is an active member of her CrossFit community.

Learn more about Alisa and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/seZC0e

08/26/2025

We are pleased to welcome Amanda Humbers, FNP, a certified nurse practitioner specializing in neurology, to our Medical Arts Specialists team in Farmington.

Amanda is committed to delivering the highest level of compassionate care to her patients. As a provider, she treats each person as an individual and takes the time to tailor a treatment plan to address their unique needs and goals.

She specializes in treating a wide range of neurological conditions, from migraines and headaches to more complex issues like multiple sclerosis, dementia, and seizure disorders. She is also skilled at administering BOTOX® for chronic migraines and performs in-office EEG testing.

Raised in Mississippi, Amanda enjoys traveling, antiquing, reading, and spending quality time with her family.

Learn more about Amanda Humbers, FNP, and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/kXer7c

04/07/2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1tmNg-aMSk
In this message, Chaplain Johnson invites us to embrace the lessons taught in the messiness of life. Often our lives are impacted by circumstances that impede our progress and frustrate our plans, but there are often messages in our messy situations that can and will bless our lives if we allow ourselves to embrace the messy moments and the ministry they provide.

In this message, Chaplain Johnson invites us to embrace the lessons taught in the messiness of life. Often our lives are impacted by circumstances that imped...

02/10/2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePH44JY34xQ

In this message, Reverend Dr. Johnson explores the imperative need to communicate for clarity and comprehension. The struggle to communicate can mean the difference between success or failure, growth or decline, and even life or death. Talking with ourselves, each other, and even God can transform our perspective and progress. We Need To Talk!

In this message, Reverend Dr. Johnson explores the imperative need to communicate for clarity and comprehension. The struggle to communicate can mean the dif...

02/03/2025

In this message, Chaplain Johnson encourages us to embrace divine inspiration in this season of challenge and uncertainty. Our purpose and passions are best served when we are inspired rather than conspired. When we are motivated by fear, anger, greed, or shame we give birth to incarcerated dreams and potential. But when we are motivated by love and poured into by grace, we give birth to new ideas, creativity, and imagination. In this Season we need to be INSPIRED.

In this message, Chaplain Johnson encourages us to embrace divine inspiration in this season of challenge and uncertainty. Our purpose and passions are best ...

01/27/2025

In this message, Dr. Johnson encourages us to remain vigilant and vibrant in our reach and relationships with one another. The challenges of cynicism and the erosion of our sense of civility can lead to a path of isolation and negation. However, the encouragement to Let Love Live is a reminder that we all have the power to Love and Love can transform anything if given a chance to thrive.

In this message, Dr. Johnson encourages us to remain vigilant and vibrant in our reach and relationships with one another. The challenges of cynicism and the...

01/20/2025

https://youtu.be/gZOkGpvc-jY?feature=shared
In this message, Reverend Dr. Johnson gives encouragement and advice to "Be Careful" during these times of transition and challenge. To be full of care is a reminder to be alert and to give attention to how we live our lives. Our thoughts, words, and deeds impact our relationships with God, others, and ourselves. We matter. Our thoughts matter. Our words matter. Our actions matter. Our lives Matter. They can transform the world.

In this message, Reverend Dr. Johnson gives encouragement and advice to "Be Careful" during these times of transition and challenge. To be full of care is a ...

01/13/2025

In this message, Chaplain Johnson encourages us to embrace the questions in our lives. The tendency to avoid the hard questions in life can stifle real and meaningful growth. Living, Loving, and Leaning into the questions could provide tremendous life transformation and treasure.

In this message, Chaplain Johnson encourages us to embrace the questions in our lives. The tendency to avoid the hard questions in life can stifle real and m...

01/06/2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSTfCUQTpjM

In this message, Chaplain Johnson explores the mindset of many who view the possibility of new experiences as something to be avoided based on past dangers, difficulties, and disappointments. Dr. Johnson encourages us to embrace the beauty and blessings before us as we heal and are helped by the wisdom, we cherish from our building blocks behind us.

In this message, Chaplain Johnson explores the mindset of many who view the possibility of new experiences as something to be avoided based on past dangers, ...

01/06/2025

Due to the winter weather advisory, clinic hours and open status may vary for Monday, January 6. Please call your provider’s office Monday morning to confirm your appointment or procedure and the office’s open status.

If you do not have an appointment and need care for a minor illness or injury, we encourage you to take advantage of BJC Virtual Care, which is available 24/7: https://heyor.ca/9l6qFG

Call 911 if you are experiencing an emergency.

12/30/2024

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwmHjVfcP0M

In this message, Dr. Johnson explores the ways in which we self-protect by choosing not to feel. During the holiday season people struggle with loss and sadness. The tendency to shut down and just "get through it" can be a tempting response, yet it robs so many of us of the real joy of living. Leaning into life and fight the temptation to numb ourselves in order to get through it could be the best gift we give to ourselves and others when blessed by God.

In this message, Rev. Dr. Johnson invites us to reflect on the blessings of the past year and embrace the possibilities of the new approaching year. We will ...

12/23/2024

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlmR5cYu_T0

In this message, Dr. Johnson explores the ways in which we self-protect by choosing not to feel. During the holiday season people struggle with loss and sadness. The tendency to shut down and just "get through it" can be a tempting response, yet it robs so many of us of the real joy of living. Leaning into life and fight the temptation to numb ourselves in order to get through it could be the best gift we give to ourselves and others when blessed by God.

In this message, Dr. Johnson explores the ways in which we self-protect by choosing not to feel. During the holiday season people struggle with loss and sadn...

12/16/2024

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0pfpnNDV0E

In this message, Reverend Dr. Johnson seeks to remind us of the sagacious wisdom of those who have experienced life and all of its twist and turns. "Just Keep Living". Such a statement is a reminder that the decision to keep going is a choice. We don't have control of all that happens in life, but we can choose how we decide to engage life. "Life" happens and is out decision how we choose to live it.

In this message, Reverend Dr. Johnson seeks to remind us of the sagacious wisdom of those who have experienced life and all of its twist and turns. "Just Kee...

12/09/2024

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BSj1nSX1NU

In this message, Reverend Dr. Johnson explores the challenges of losing focus on what matters most in our lives. Although at times we have experiences that we are sure that we will never forget, we discover that life happens, and what we were sure of and clear about, no longer seems so sure and clear. This message is meant to help us identify the ways we forget and present a call to revive our memories about what is most important to us.

In this message, Reverend Dr. Johnson explores the challenges of losing focus on what matters most in our lives. Although at times we have experiences that w...