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As a practitioner, Kara finds patient care truly rewarding and is passionate about providing evidence-based care to people of all walks of life, particularly those in underserved areas. She has experience in both the rural health clinic and walk-in clinic settings and looks forward to working in Memorial Hospital’s convenient care. BACK TO ALL PROVIDERS Kara Roth, FNP-C, DNP Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Doctorate of Nurse Practice Employed Provider Kara began her healthcare journey in 2015 as a registered nurse and has been dedicated to caring for patients ever since. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) and completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2021. Kara is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. In addition to her clinical work, Kara is deeply committed to education and mentorship. She has served as adjunct faculty at Maryville University and has mentored nurse practitioner students at SIUE. She currently serves as Director of the Beck School of Practical Nursing in Red Bud, Illinois. Kara is passionate about delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to patients of all backgrounds, with a special commitment to underserved communities. She has experience in both rural health and walk-in clinic settings, where she values providing timely, reliable care that helps patients get answers and feel better quickly. One of Kara’s most meaningful accomplishments was helping lead a clinic initiative to expand cervical cancer screenings in an underserved area. Through this effort, her team identified six previously undiagnosed cancers and more than 20 pre-cancer cases, allowing patients to receive earlier, life-changing treatment. Kara will begin seeing patients at Memorial Hospital’s Convenient Care following her onboarding in June 2026. She looks forward to caring for the community and providing accessible, high-quality care while continuing her role in nursing education. Convenient Care Specialized Care More Info Welcome New Convenient Care Provider Hospital News May 6 Memorial Hospital Opens Convenient Care in New Location Hospital News Feb 9 Memorial Hospital Announces Convenient Care Provider Team Hospital News Jan 26

Dr. John Park is a board-certified ENT specialist and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, providing comprehensive care for patients of all ages. Known for his patient-focused approach, he has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor from 2023–2025. BACK TO ALL PROVIDERS Dr. John Park, M.D., F.A.C.S. ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat)/Otolaryngologist, Head and Neck Surgery Contracted/Non-Employed Provider Dr. John Park is a board-certified otolaryngologist and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, specializing in comprehensive care for ear, nose, and throat conditions in both adults and children. He is known for his thoughtful, patient-centered approach, prioritizing clear communication and personalized treatment plans. Dr. Park earned his medical degree from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO. He completed his general surgery internship and otolaryngology residency at Washington University, where he received extensive training in advanced ENT care. He has been recognized for his clinical excellence as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor in 2023, 2024, and 2025. His areas of expertise include allergy and sinus care, treatment of nasal airway obstruction, and management of sleep-related conditions. He offers advanced procedures such as balloon sinus surgery and other ENT surgical procedures. Patients consistently value Dr. Park’s thorough, calm, and approachable demeanor, as well as his commitment to exploring effective treatment options tailored to each individual’s needs. Dr. Park joins Memorial Hospital’s Specialty Clinic in June 2026, offering outpatient clinic visits twice monthly on Fridays, along with in-office procedures and same-day surgeries. To schedule an appointment, contact Memorial Hospital Specialty Clinic at (618) 826-4581 ext. 1366. ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us. Check back soon Once posts are published, you’ll see them here.

Dr. Rebecca Brandsted is a board-certified otolaryngologist specializing in comprehensive care for ear, nose, and throat conditions in both adults and children one year of age and older. She is dedicated to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, with a focus on helping patients find relief and improve their quality of life. She offers a full range of ENT services, including treatment for ear infections, sinus conditions, allergies, hearing loss, and sleep disorders. Her expertise also includes pediatric ENT care for children over the age of one year, sinus surgery, balloon sinuplasty, orbital fractures, and surgical management of thyroid conditions and tumors. Dr. John Park is a board-certified otolaryngologist and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, specializing in comprehensive care for ear, nose, and throat conditions in both adults and children. He is known for his thoughtful, patient-centered approach, prioritizing clear communication and personalized treatment plans. His areas of expertise include allergy and sinus care, treatment of nasal airway obstruction, and management of sleep-related conditions. He offers advanced procedures as Memorial Hospital such as balloon sinus surgery and other ENT surgical procedures. To learn more about surgical procedures performed for ears, nose, and throat visit www.mhchester.com/surgical-procedures or call Memorial Hospital Specialty Clinic at (618) 826-4581 ext. 1366

Kristyn Riley, Women's Health Physical Therapist at Memorial Hospital's Therapy and Sports Rehab Center specializes in treatment and therapy for many conditions that may be causing pain, discomfort, and disruptions due to pelvic floor weakness or dysfunction. A pelvic floor is made up of the muscles that support the urinary and reproductive tracts. These muscles also control your bladder and bowels. Functions include: support for your abdominal and pelvic organs, controlling your ability to hold or release contents of your bladder and bowels, sexual function, and posture. A women's health physical therapist goes through additional post graduate training to evaluate and treat musculoskeletal conditions specific to women, including: • Pregnancy and post-partum related issues • Pelvic pain • Urinary or fecal incontinence • Pelvic organ prolapse Pelvic floor muscles can become stretched during childbirth, weak with aging, or hypertonic with increased stress. If you experience any of the following, you may benefit from seeing a women's health PT: • Leaking of urine or feces when you cough, sneeze, jump, or perform any other form of exercise • Frequent need to urinate, strong urgency or feeling of incomplete ability to empty your bladder • Any leaking of urine, unrelated to movement or activity. • Pain with intercourse or gynecological exam • Pregnant and experiencing back pain, pubic symphysis pain, hip pain, or round ligament pain • History of childbirth and have diastasis recti (when your belly sticks out because the space between your left and right belly muscles has widened) or problems with a c-section scar • Pelvic pressure or prolapse During your first consultation with Kristyn she will ask a variety of questions regarding your symptoms, family history, and health history. Then she will perform a physical exam of your posture, lower back and SIJ movement, abdominal muscle function, and hip muscle flexibility. An internal assessment of the pelvic floor may be needed to assess the following: • Muscle Tone • Flexibility • Pain • Prolapse • Coordination • Strength, Endurance • Patient's Ability to Voluntarily Contract or Relax A treatment plan typically consist of 1-2 visits per week over a span of 8-12 weeks. Many patients reach their goals within just 4-8 in-person visits. Ask your doctor for a referral to Kristyn Riley, Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in Women's Health Physical Therapy.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires commercial motor vehicle operators to have the DOT physical exam to maintain their driver certification. Drivers must provide periodic physical examination reports to maintain compliance and continue working. Memorial Hospital's Rural Clinic providers are certified to perform your DOT physical to ensure that you are in satisfactory health and able to work safely. Don't loose time on the road, schedule your DOT physical today at the Chester Clinic 618-826-2388 or Steeleville Family Practice 618-965-3382. Wat the DOT Physical Covers 1. Vision 2. Hearing 3. Blood Pressure/Pulse Rate 4. Urinalysis 5. Physical Examination Be Prepared for Your Physical • Take all medications as scheduled at all times, since taking your medication irregularly may cause inaccurate readings during the physical exam. • Do not run out of your prescribed medications as you lead up to your physical exam. Suddenly withdrawing from a medication can significantly impact your test. • If you use contact lenses or glasses to see, make sure your prescription is up to date and bring your corrective lenses with you tot he physical. What You Need for the DOT Physical • Bring medical records from your primary care doctor if your primary care doctor is not the one performing your exam. • If you have any health conditions, bring the name and contact information for the doctor who treats you for each condition. Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or sleep apnea typically require additional paperwork, such as sleep test results or stress test results. • Bring a complete medication list. The list should include every medication you take, its strength, its dosage, and the prescribing doctor.

We’re proud to welcome two experienced ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists, Dr. Rebecca Brandsted and Dr. John Park, to our Specialty Clinic this June. They bring expanded access to care that supports patients from childhood through adulthood and beyond. Whether it’s helping a child finally sleep through the night, relieving years of sinus discomfort, or improving hearing and balance, ENT care plays an important role in overall health and well-being. Comprehensive ENT Care for All Ages Ear, nose, and throat conditions are often something people live with longer than they should sometimes not realizing how much better they could feel with the right care. Dr. Brandsted and Dr. Park provide a wide range of ENT services for both adult and pediatric patients older than one year, including care for: Ear infections and hearing concerns Sinus conditions and allergies Tonsil and adenoid issues Orbital fractures and parathyroid issues Sleep-related conditions, including snoring and sleep apnea In addition to in-office care, both providers offer advanced procedures and surgical options, helping patients find effective solutions to improve their comfort and quality of life. These services are now available right here at Memorial Hospital, making it easier for patients and families to find answers, feel heard, and begin their path toward relief. Meet the Providers Dr. Rebecca Brandsted, M.D. Dr. Brandsted is a board-certified otolaryngologist specializing in comprehensive ENT care, including pediatric services for children over one year of age, sinus treatment, and surgical procedures. She completed her training at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor from 2023–2025. Patients value her compassionate approach and her ability to clearly explain conditions and treatment options while delivering effective results. Clinic availability: Twice monthly on Tuesdays Dr. John Park, M.D., F.A.C.S. Dr. Park is a board-certified otolaryngologist and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He trained at Washington University School of Medicine and has also been named a Castle Connolly Top Doctor from 2023–2025. He specializes in sinus and allergy care, nasal airway treatments, and sleep-related conditions, including advanced therapies for obstructive sleep apnea. Patients appreciate his thoughtful, patient-centered approach and commitment to individualized care. Clinic availability: Twice monthly on Fridays Trusted Care, Close to Home By welcoming these providers, Memorial Hospital continues to build on a foundation of care that puts patients first. Having access to specialty services locally means fewer barriers, more timely care, and stronger connections between patients and their care teams. Whether managing a chronic condition or addressing a new concern, patients can expect compassionate care, clear communication, and personalized treatment plans. It also means that patients can feel confident knowing their care is part of a broader network of trusted professionals, all working together to support their health. Now Scheduling Appointments Appointments are now being scheduled for both providers. Talk to your primary care provider about a referral today. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call Memorial Hospital Specialty Clinic at (618) 826-4581 ext. 1366. Memorial Hospital is proud to restore ENT services and welcomes Dr. Brandsted and Dr. Park as trusted members of the Specialty Clinic team. Their expertise and dedication will strengthen access to care and support the health and well-being of the community.

Memorial Hospital hosted its 3-day Junior Explorers Camp this week, welcoming nine students entering 6th through 8th grade for an exciting, hands-on exploration of careers in healthcare. Throughout the camp, participants received an up-close and personal look at the many opportunities within the medical field, hearing from 13 different healthcare professions and engaging in interactive demonstrations across multiple departments. Students gained valuable life-saving skills, including First Aid, CPR, AED use, and choking rescue training, giving them confidence and knowledge they can carry with them into the future. The camp experience included engaging sessions with a wide range of hospital departments, such as: Laboratory Services: Behind-the-scenes tours of the lab and outpatient lab areas Nursing: Exploration of nursing careers, including a Hoyer lift demonstration where students were transferred from bed to chair, as well as an Autopulse simulation on a manikin Cardiac Pulmonary Rehab Center: Learning about heart and lung rehabilitation through a fun escape room challenge and department tour Pharmacy: Filling cany prescriptions, mixing IV medications safely, and touring the department Cardiopulmonary: Listening to lung sounds, experiencing breathing with asthma, receiving a tour of the Sleep Lab and learning how tobacco and vaping products are harmful for your lungs and body Diagnostic Imaging: Hands-on activities including building X-ray images, positioning skeletons, and operating X-ray equipment Dentistry: Creating fillings in model teeth while learning about oral health careers Occupational Therapy: Practicing adaptive tools that help patients with daily tasks Specialty Clinic: Participating in a patient scenario and visiting the audiologist Dietary Services: Touring the kitchen, learning food safety, and enjoying a yogurt buffet Speech Pathology: Exploring how we speak, control volume, and perform swallowing exercises Surgical Department: Learning how personal protective equipment keeps patient safe during surgical procedures and how to put it on and take it off correctly AirEvac: Although weather prevented a helicopter landing, students engaged in an in-depth discussion about emergency air transport and asked insightful questions Medical Explorers assisted throughout the camp, helping guide students and enhance the learning experience. From start to finish, the students showed curiosity, asked thoughtful questions, and eagerly participated in every activity. They tracked which careers interested them most, and by the end of the week, each student discovered multiple healthcare paths that sparked their interest. “This camp is all about sparking curiosity and showing students the many ways they can make a difference in healthcare,” said a camp organizer, Mariah Bargman “It’s inspiring to see them connect with different professions and begin imagining their futures.” More Youth Opportunities This Summer Memorial Hospital is excited to continue engaging young learners with two upcoming educational opportunities: Child and Babysitting Safety Class — June 25 Child and Babysitting Safety Class — July 23 These classes are designed to equip youth with essential safety skills and confidence while caring for others. Registration is now open at: www.mhchester.com

Memorial Hospital recently partnered with the Chester Police Department to provide an impactful Verbal and Physical De‑Escalation Training for staff, reinforcing the hospital’s ongoing commitment to workplace safety and high‑quality patient care. The training, held on June 9 at the hospital, was led by Sergeant Joe Jany and Officer Steve Laramore of the Chester Police Department. Two sessions were offered to accommodate staff schedules, with priority given to Emergency Room personnel and Nursing Supervisors. Each session combined classroom instruction with hands‑on practice, equipping participants with practical tools to manage and safely de‑escalate challenging situations. The impact of the training was evident in the way staff talked about their experience afterward. Survey responses reflected not just satisfaction, but a sense of reassurance and renewed confidence. Every participant rated the training highly, and most shared that they now feel better equipped to navigate high‑stress situations that can arise in a healthcare setting. What stood out most to attendees was the opportunity to step beyond simply hearing about de‑escalation and actually practice it. Through hands‑on demonstrations and realistic scenarios, staff were able to work alongside colleagues, try techniques in real time, and build skills they could immediately bring back to their roles. Many described these moments as the most valuable part of the experience, where learning truly “clicked.” Participants also spoke highly of the instructors, noting their ability to break down complex situations into clear, practical steps. Their approachable style and real‑world insight helped bridge the gap between law enforcement techniques and everyday patient care, making the training feel relevant, empowering, and directly applicable to the hospital environment. “This training gave our team practical, easy‑to‑apply strategies that can make a critical difference in maintaining a safe environment,” said Kelly Jany, Chief Nursing Officer. “From verbal communication techniques to physical self‑protection methods, our staff now feel more prepared and supported when facing difficult situations.” The training emphasized proactive safety measures, situational awareness, and communication strategies designed to reduce escalation before it becomes physical. It also provided staff with effective techniques to protect themselves and others if a situation intensifies, helping ensure the safety of patients, visitors, and team members alike. Memorial Hospital views this training as a key component of its broader mission to foster a culture of safety, compassion, and excellence. By investing in staff development and partnering with local law enforcement, the organization continues to prioritize both employee well‑being and exceptional patient care. “We are extremely grateful to the Chester Police Department for their partnership and dedication,” Jany added. “Their expertise and willingness to engage with our team directly strengthens our ability to provide a safe, supportive environment for everyone who enters our facility.” Additional de‑escalation training sessions are expected to be scheduled in the future to ensure all staff have access to this valuable program.