Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital

07/18/2025

Congratulations to Kelsey, LPN, from BJC Medical Group Primary Care at Alton Memorial Hospital, our first-ever BJC Medical Group nurse to receive the DAISY Award. This recognition celebrates nurses who embody extraordinary compassion and kindness in their daily practice.

Kelsey was honored for her tireless dedication to patients, ensuring they receive test results and the medications essential for their well-being. Beyond her clinical responsibilities, her nomination highlighted her commitment to going above and beyond, even outside the clinic setting.

Her nominator shared that Kelsey selflessly sacrificed hours of her own family time on Thanksgiving Day last year to bring a meal to an elderly patient.

The patient had expected to spend the holiday alone, but instead it was transformed by Kelsey's compassionate gesture, brightening their day with both food and companionship. The nominator added, "She drove an hour each way to spend time with this patient. She always goes out of her way to help a patient when needed—her kindness is inspirational."

Congratulations, Kelsey, for your well-deserved Daisy Award. Your dedication makes a lasting difference in the lives of patients every single day.

If you have experienced or witnessed compassionate care from a BJC Medical Group nurse, we invite you to recognize them by submitting a DAISY Award nomination: https://www.bjcmedicalgroup.org/DAISY

07/18/2025

For decades, Bill quietly endured crippling shoulder pain. It stole his sleep, his passion for golf, and even affected his family. He tried to get by, gritting his teeth, but the pain became too much.

That's when Bill turned to the WashU Medicine Orthopedics team at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. Under the expert care of Alexander Aleem, MD, an advanced reverse shoulder arthroplasty became a "life-changing event," giving Bill a shoulder that feels like he's in his 20s again.

Read how Bill regained his full range of motion, said goodbye to pain, and got his active life back: https://heyor.ca/Je9HI9

WashU Medicine Physicians

07/10/2025

We are pleased to welcome Emily Klein, FNP, DNP, a certified family nurse practitioner, to our team at BJC Medical Group Gastroenterology at Belleville.

Emily is committed to a holistic approach, focusing on uncovering and treating the root causes of gastrointestinal health problems. For Emily, the most rewarding part of her job is seeing her patients' health transform and the impact it has on their daily lives.

Emily treats patients aged 18 and older, addressing a wide range of conditions including abdominal pain, acid reflux (GERD), stomach ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, constipation, chronic diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome. She is dedicated to creating comprehensive care plans that effectively manage these issues, ensuring better overall health for her patients.

When she’s not caring for patients, you can find Emily staying busy spending time with her family, gardening, caring for her small farm of sheep, chickens, and rabbits, and working at the local farmer's market.

Learn more about Emily and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/4OBtTj

07/09/2025

We’re excited to celebrate the opening of the new Missouri Baptist Medical Center Internal Medicine Residency Clinic and welcome its first class of internal medicine residents! 🎉

At this clinic, learning and patient care go hand in hand. Residents will work closely with experienced physicians from BJC Medical Group and WashU Medicine to provide thoughtful, high-quality care for adults of all ages.

If you’re looking for a primary care provider, learn more about this new care team and their availability for same-day care: https://heyor.ca/I4ja1Q

07/02/2025

We are thrilled to welcome Tracy Reed, DPM, a new podiatrist, to our team at BJC Medical Group Podiatry at Christian Hospital.

Dr. Reed's interest in podiatry was sparked after she witnessed the impact another podiatrist had on his patients, inspiring her to pursue a career that focuses on a single body part to help people find lasting relief.

Her work is driven by a passion for preventing pain and avoiding unnecessary amputations, particularly for patients with diabetes and poor circulation. She believes feet are essential for all aspects of life and shouldn't cause daily pain. For Dr. Reed, nothing is more rewarding than when a patient returns and says, "My feet are better!"

As a board-certified podiatrist, she treats patients of all ages and specializes in a wide range of foot conditions, from bunions and hammertoes to heel pain and wounds on the lower extremity. Dr. Reed also provides comprehensive diabetic foot care and orthotic evaluations.

When she's not helping patients, you can find this proud St. Louis native enjoying travel, trying new restaurants, tap dancing, volunteering in the community, and spending time with her dog, London, and her loved ones.

Learn more about Dr. Reed and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/Sn0EJ4

06/25/2025

Congratulations to Rich Liekweg, BJC Health System CEO, who announced his plans to retire on October 1, 2025, concluding an extraordinary career spanning almost 40 years in health care, the last 16 of which were devoted to BJC.

“It has been an honor to serve and lead our team members these past 16 years as they deliver exceptional care to our patients and communities,” said Rich. “Together, we successfully navigated through unprecedented times in the industry, never losing sight of our singular purpose to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve. I am deeply proud of our caregivers, the culture we have created, and the values we share that place the patient at the center of all we do.”

BJC is pleased to announce that Nick Barto, current BJC Health System President, will succeed Rich as President and CEO of BJC Health System.

“I am honored to be selected to succeed Rich Liekweg as BJC Health System’s President and CEO,” said Nick. “I look forward to working with our 47,000 team members to build on Rich’s vision that grew BJC into a super-regional health care leader, to continue to provide extraordinary care to the communities we serve, and to position BJC as a mission-oriented academic health care leader for all future generations.”

Read more here: https://heyor.ca/j1yUMR

06/19/2025

Christopher was living with debilitating hip pain and looking for a doctor who could provide anterior hip replacement surgery, a less invasive surgical option. Finding an expert proved challenging until he discovered Dr. Jesse Beard, a BJC Medical Group orthopedic surgeon at Parkland Health Center.

The orthopedic team at Parkland offers personalized care and advanced surgical techniques, including the anterior approach—a method that involves a smaller incision, less muscle disruption, and a faster recovery.

“Dr. Beard told me, ‘You really must get this done,’" Christopher said. “I was so nervous, but I’m glad I did it.”

Christopher's hip surgery was a success. Today, he moves without experiencing sharp pain, climbing steps and balancing better. "The staff was amazing, and my experience at Parkland Health Center was wonderful!"

His left hip will eventually need surgery, too, and he has no hesitation about who he'll turn to. "When it's time," he says, "I'm going back to Dr. Beard."

Learn more about Christopher's success story and how our orthopedic surgeons may help you live a better, pain-free life: https://heyor.ca/Pjo3JS

06/12/2025

We are pleased to welcome board-certified orthopedic sports medicine surgeon Jesse Beard, DO, to the team at Parkland Health Center. Dr. Beard sees patients at both the Farmington and Bonne Terre locations.

A proud Farmington native, Dr. Beard honed his orthopedic expertise with professional teams like the NFL's Baltimore Ravens and NHL's Washington Capitals, and now he's excited to bring that exceptional care to his community.

From high school athletes striving for peak performance to anyone looking to regain comfortable movement in their daily life, Dr. Beard sees patients age 5 and up. He offers specialized care for a wide spectrum of joint, shoulder, hip, and knee conditions, including:

— Fractures
— Joint arthritis
— Knee and shoulder instability
— Meniscus, labral, tendon, and ligament tears
— Cartilage damage
— Carpal tunnel syndrome
— Shoulder, hand, and wrist conditions

With a focus on restoring movement and quality of life, Dr. Beard performs advanced arthroscopic and minimally invasive surgeries of the hip, knee, and shoulder, as well as comprehensive total joint replacements. His services also include cartilage repair, ligament reconstruction, tendon repairs, and joint injections, alongside offering physical therapy referrals and specialized sports medicine care.

Dr. Beard believes in treating each patient with their individual goals at heart. He fosters a shared decision-making process, ensuring patients are well-informed about their conditions and all available treatment options.

When he's not seeing patients or in the operating room, Dr. Beard can be found spending time outdoors with his family.

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

06/06/2025

We are pleased to welcome Joshua Bell, PA-C, to the team at BJC Medical Group Primary Care at St. Peters. A St. Louis native, Josh prioritizes a patient-centered and holistic approach and is driven by a commitment to making long-term impacts in his patients’ health.

Josh was inspired to pursue a career in health care after witnessing the care his father received while Josh was in high school. What keeps him motivated is the joy of building relationships with patients–he considers hearing how he has changed lives for the better among his proudest moments.

Josh sees patients aged 18 and older and provides comprehensive preventive care, including annual wellness exams and vaccinations. He specializes in managing a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, such as:

— High blood pressure and diabetes
— Minor illnesses and injuries
— High cholesterol and thyroid disease
— COPD and asthma

Outside of the clinic, Josh enjoys spending quality time outdoors with his family, tackling home improvement projects, and attending sporting events.

Learn more about Josh and schedule your appointment online: https://heyor.ca/feHm6H

05/28/2025

We are pleased to welcome Timothy Martin, MD, a board-certified cardiologist to BJC Medical Group Cardiology in St. Peters and O’Fallon.

Dr. Martin sees patients aged 18 and older and brings a wealth of expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of heart conditions, including:

— Congestive heart failure
— Coronary artery disease
— Arrhythmias
— High blood pressure and high cholesterol
— Acute and chronic chest pain

With a focus on personalized and comprehensive care, Dr. Martin performs diagnostic procedures, including cardiac catheterization, peripheral angiography, echocardiograms, and the placement and management of cardiac devices. He works closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure each patient receives a treatment plan that prioritizes their well-being and improves cardiovascular health outcomes.

Outside of work, Dr. Martin enjoys the great outdoors, where he enjoys hobbies like hiking, cycling, skiing, hunting, and fishing. He is also active in his church and volunteers his time as a soccer coach.

Learn more about Dr. Martin and call to schedule your appointment: https://heyor.ca/3yZzrL

05/21/2025

We are pleased to welcome board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine physician, Thomas Berkbigler, DO, to the team at Parkland Health Center.

Dr. Berkbigler's passion for medicine began in high school, and he has since evolved from a dedicated physical therapist to an accomplished orthopedic surgeon.

Early in his career, Dr. Berkbigler was encouraged to pursue internal medicine, and a mentor at medical school recognized his natural strengths in mechanics and physical medicine and pushed him towards orthopedic surgery.

Orthopedics proved a natural fit for Dr. Berkbigler, who grew up learning carpentry and woodworking from his father. This hands-on background, combined with his experience as a physical therapist, gave him a unique understanding of how mechanics, structure, and physical medicine come together in the musculoskeletal system.

Dr. Berkbigler treats adults and children 5 years and older, addressing a wide range of conditions affecting the shoulder, hand, wrist, ankle, hip, and knee. This includes everything from fractures, meniscus and ACL tears, and carpal tunnel syndrome to general joint pain and arthritis. He is committed to prioritizing individual patient needs and staying current with the latest medical advancements to deliver effective care.

Dr. Berkbigler specializes in minimally invasive surgical techniques, allowing for quicker recovery and improved outcomes. His expertise extends to partial and total knee replacement surgeries, shoulder and knee arthroscopy, hand joint fusion, endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery, and cartilage repair and preservation.

Beyond his professional life, Dr. Berkbigler enjoys woodworking, values a healthy lifestyle, and is guided by his faith. Dr. Berkbigler is also an active community volunteer, and his commitment to the well-being of others extends globally through his annual Surgical Orthopedic Mission to Honduras.

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

05/19/2025

In moments of crisis, EMS professionals are the steady hands and calm voices that bring comfort, care, and lifesaving skill when it matters most. Their dedication often begins long before a patient reaches the hospital, and their impact stays long after.

We’re deeply thankful for the compassion and courage these teams show every day, in every call, for every community.

This week, during EMS Week, we honor all EMS professionals for the critical role they play in the health and safety of the communities we serve. Thank you for answering the call. 🚑

05/18/2025

We are heartbroken by the pain, loss, and devastation caused by Friday's storms. Our thoughts are with all who have been affected, and we stand steadfast in our commitment to care for our community now and in the days ahead.

Today, we are especially grateful for the first responders who ran into danger to save lives, neighbors who helped neighbors, and caregivers who cared for others when they need it most.

All BJC hospitals remain open, including Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children's Hospital. All scheduled appointments will take place as planned.

If you need assistance, the American Red Cross of Missouri and American Red Cross of Illinois offer emergency services, including emergency shelters, help contacting loved ones, and recovery assistance: https://heyor.ca/qAVtBa

211 is a free and confidential service supported by the United Way that connects you to a community resource specialist who can put you in touch with local organizations that provide critical services. 211 can be accessed by phone or at www.211.org.

05/18/2025

We are heartbroken by the pain, loss, and devastation caused by Friday's storms. Our thoughts are with all who have been affected, and we stand steadfast in our commitment to care for our community now and in the days ahead.

Today, we are especially grateful for the first responders who ran into danger to save lives, neighbors who helped neighbors, and caregivers who cared for others when they need it most.

All BJC facilities remain open, and all scheduled appointments will take place as planned.

If you need assistance, the American Red Cross of Missouri and American Red Cross of Illinois offer emergency services, including emergency shelters, help contacting loved ones, and recovery assistance: https://heyor.ca/qAVtBa

211 is a free and confidential service supported by the United Way that connects you to a community resource specialist who can put you in touch with local organizations that provide critical services. 211 can be accessed by phone or at www.211.org.

05/08/2025

Nurses are the beating heart of health care. At hospitals, clinics, and homes all across our community, their tenacity and dedication provide the strong foundation that our expert, compassionate care is built upon.

Many of us can recall a memory of a nurse who was there for us when we needed them most—a nurse who held your hand, reassured you that you weren't alone, and cheered you on through it all.

This , we honor the difference-making, lifesaving nurses at BJC and all across our community.

Thank you. 💙

05/02/2025

We touch our faces countless times a day, giving germs an easy way in. 🦠 Level up your hygiene game with these eight essential steps for truly clean hands: https://heyor.ca/aDHLyo

04/23/2025

Headache, congestion, fatigue hitting you hard this spring? Before you blame it all on pollen, consider whether it might be a sinus infection.

Understanding the key differences can help you get the right treatment and get back to enjoying this gorgeous weather. Find your answers here: https://heyor.ca/lggayU

04/15/2025

Our president, Angelleen Peters-Lewis, PhD, RN, FAAN, continues to be a champion for our community. Not only did she passionately participate in the CEOs Against Cancer challenge last week, but she also logged a winning 41,067 steps in a friendly competition with her fellow presidents! 😉

Last week, three of our incredible leaders stepped up to make a difference. Barnes-Jewish Hospital president John Lynch, MD, Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital president Angelleen Peters-Lewis, PhD, RN, FAAN, and St. Louis Children's Hospital president Trish Lollo collectively took an impressive 90,000 steps–over 40 miles–in the American Cancer Society's CEOs Against Cancer challenge.

This effort underscores our ongoing dedication to fighting cancer and supporting our community. When you need us, we are here for you–including the world-class cancer care you deserve from WashU Medicine Physicians at Siteman Cancer Center.

Visit getscreenednow.com for details on cancer screenings, ways to prevent cancer, and assess Your Disease Risk.® Also, learn more about the incredible work being done at Siteman Kids: https://heyor.ca/Nrf1Q0

04/11/2025

Today, Angelleen Peters-Lewis, PhD, RN, FAAN, hospital president, got her dance on and her steps in for the CEOs Against Cancer Challenge sponsored by the American Cancer Society. She joined fellow BJC leaders Dr. John Lynch and Trish Lollo, as well as executives nationwide to track their steps, highlighting how physical activity and a healthy lifestyle can reduce cancer risk.

Angelleen shared her personal connection to this important cause: "Like many others, the fight against cancer is real and personal for me, as we continue to work towards improving disparities in cancer care and all patient outcomes. This disease has taken members of my family way too soon! It is for all these reasons that I am honored to participate in CEOs Against Cancer because we are coming together with the American Cancer Society to raise awareness, supporting the work of our partners at Siteman Cancer Center, and encouraging exercise and other healthy habits to reduce cancer risk."

When you need us, BJC HealthCare is here for you–including the world-class cancer care you deserve from WashU Medicine Physicians at Siteman Cancer Center. Visit getscreenednow.com for details on cancer screenings, ways to prevent cancer, and assess Your Disease Risk.®

03/30/2025

Behind every diagnosis, every treatment plan, and every reassuring smile is a doctor who has dedicated their life to healing others. Today, on National Doctors’ Day, we pause to honor the hands that heal, the hearts that care, and the minds that never stop working to keep us well.

To the doctors who dedicate their lives to research and leading-edge care, who sacrifice time with their own families to be there for ours, and who show up every single day with unwavering dedication—thank you.

Your compassion, resilience, and expertise change lives in ways you may never fully see, but please know that your impact is immeasurable.

Join us in thanking a doctor in the comments and let them know how much they’re appreciated!

03/28/2025

The St. Louis Cardinals took home their first win of the season on ! And we're celebrating along with die hard Cardinals fan and occupational therapist, Courtney. ⚾️

Courtney grew up playing softball from little league through high school, and loved playing and practicing with her dad. Like so many of us, some of her best memories are centered around baseball, like watching games with her grandma and shouting in celebration with her family when David Freese clinched the historic game 6 win in 2011.

As an athlete, Courtney was also fascinated with the human body and how movement and mental health can impact athletic performance and everyday life. After shadowing occupational therapists in high school, she knew that it was the career for her. "OT helps people get back to doing things they want or need to do, like self-care tasks or leisure, work, and beyond! I love collaborating to find creative solutions throughout their rehabilitation journey so patients can return to independence."

Over the last 5 years at BJC HealthCare, Courtney has seen that the importance of teamwork is just as important in health care as it is in baseball. "The hospital is an ecosystem! We all have to work together to communicate and address patient/family/caregiver needs to provide holistic care."

We're so glad to have Courtney on our home team!

03/11/2025

For those who have not yet had the privilege of meeting him, we want to extend a warm welcome to Chaplain Hamish Seegers, LT, USN, MAR, MAML, MDiv, APBCC-HPC, our newly appointed Spiritual Care Manager.

Many within our community will recall Chaplain Hamish's dedicated service as chaplain at Evelyn's House, a role he had fulfilled with compassion and distinction since 2017. Following a six-month deployment as a Military Chaplain with the United States Navy, he has returned, bringing his invaluable experience back to our team.

Chaplain Hamish's impressive educational background, combined with his unwavering commitment to fostering trust and enhancing spiritual care, positions him perfectly to lead our Spiritual Care Program. This initiative will enrich the well-being of our patients, their care partners, our team members, and the broader community we serve.

We are delighted to welcome Chaplain Hamish to our leadership team and invite you to join us in extending a heartfelt Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital welcome. 💙