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The Auxiliary is able to assist the hospital in purchasing needed equipment for various departments through the community's generous donations and memorials. Funds collected this year will be used to purchase a Bladder Scan i10 for the Emergency Room Department. To really care for people, you must understand the patients you care for today—and tomorrow. This piece of equipment will enable us to detect and define bladder location, size, shape and the amount of fluid in the bladder, automatically in seconds. The Non-invasive portable tool will help the patients get a quicker diagnosis, management and treatment of urinary outflow dysfunction. The cost of this purchase is $11,972. Funds raised to date are $12,286. This year’s Tree of Remembrance contributions will make up the majority of our fundraising for the year. Giving this year is more important than ever. During the holiday season we invite you to contribute in honor of a loved one. Your contribution and memorial are recognized weekly on Facebook and will be published in the County Journal at the end of the Tree of Remembrance drive. Donations and memorials can be mailed to: Memorial Hospital Auxiliary ATTN: Tree of Remembrance 1900 State Street Chester, IL 62233 Or scan this code to make an online donation: Memorials: Welton Schwent Family in Memory of Welton Schwent Earl Jungewaelter Family in Memory of Earl Jungewaelter Judi Hirte In memory of my parents - Bernice & Keith Rednour Barbara Ann Holley In memory of my husband - George Holley, my parents - Lois and Charles Hirte, my in-laws - Roseanne & Gordon V. Holley The Randy Dudenbostel Family In loving memory of Debbie Dudenbostel Cynthia Lawder In memory of Shelby Lawder Pechacek Funeral Homes In memory of Ron Pechacek Linda Rader In memory of PFC Leonard Nitzsche, L/CPL Charles Rader, & Russell Rader Beta Nu Chapter In memory of sisters passed Linda Butler In memory of Tony Beekner Jeannette Decker In memory of her husband Kevin Decker Steven J. Sympson in Honor of the People of the City of Chester, Illinois Steven J. Sympson in Memory of Uncle Terry Brelje and Aunt Martha Brelje Dale & Marsha Link in Memory of Harold & Ina Link, Charles & Jean Link, Glen & Bonnie (Link) Horn, Ron (Duck) & Nan Link, Jack & Sandra Link, and Tony Viorel Judith Petrowske In memory of Don Petrowske Mary Alice Welge in Remembrance of Donald Welge, Mr. & Mrs. Wilbur Saak, Mr. & Mrs. Brockey Childers, Mr. & Mrs. William H. Welge, 1st Lt. Bruce Welge, and Frances Jarvis Mary Alice Welge, Betty Surman, Elaine Kattenbraker, and Jean Jungewaelter In Memory of Bonnie Jones Larry and Joice Surman In memory of our daughter, Lori McCartney Janice Dettmer, Regina & Shawn Straight and Family In memory of Raymond Dettmer and John Dettmer Janice Dettmer, Judith McLeod, Joan and David Meyer, Gina and Shawn Straight and Family In memory of Herman and Louise Dettmer, John and Rose Leaders, and Mark McLeod Mary Brown In Memory of Bruce Brown Rhonda Bockhorn In memory of Betty Wagner Vernon L. Buch In memory of Mary Ann Hartmann Buch The Honorable Richard A. Brown In memory of Barb Brown Tom, Deana, Emily Tudor in memory of Cheryl McDonald Mardell Moeller Granger In memory of Ralph F. Granger, Gottlieb & Marie Moeller, and Frank & Emma Granger Darrel Ehlers In memory of Carol Ehlers Emily Lyons In memory of Camille & Blasé Lyons Larry & Imogenen McDonoughIn memory of loved ones The Guthman Family In memory of Debbie Dudenbostel, John & Jessie Guthman, Bonnie Jones, and Donna Strothmann Carl and Bonnie Todd in memory of Percy Davitz Mr. Rodney and Dr. Lisa Lowry-Rohlfing Beverly Bollman In memory of Don Bollman, Helen & Vernon Stamm Dr. Allan and Louise Liefer In remembrance of our parents Sam & Mathilda Stermer and Elmer & Elsie Liefer Donna Eggemeyer In remembrance of Roger and Ruth Petrowske Darlene Gentsch In remembrance of my parents, MR. & Mrs. Gale Armes Carolyn Schwent In memory of Gary Schwent, Mike Jungewaelter, Karen Deppe, Rick Cash, Phil Fluck, Larry Costilow, and Mary Ann Stumpe "B.V. Gals" In memory of Rosie Craig, Marion Lutz, Millie Layton, Carole Malley, and Marlene Seymour Barbara Hall In memory of Bruce Hall The Mike Vasquez Family In loving memory of Dan & Blanch Vasquez, John & Rudelle Fulford. Mary Ann Childers In memory of Gary Childers, Margaret Childers, Wm. O & Irene Welge, and Robert Charles Welge Virginia Rowold & Family Members In memory of Ken Rowold, The Otto Rowold Family, and the Wm. O. Welge Family Memorial Hospital Auxiliary In memory of Nancy Diercks Barb and Keith Kittel In memory of Kris and Kyle Kittell Sandra Starr In remembrance of Mark Starr Kathy Winkler In remembrance of Sandi Essner Kelly Moeller In remembrance of James Gregory Mary and Dave Verseman in remembrance of Roger and Ruth Petrowske and Families The Kordys Family In remembrance of Bonnie and Harry Jones Donations: The County Journal Evelyn Schuwerk Bremen Altar Guild Delta Kappa Gamma City of Chester Arbeiter Law Office Randolph County Abstract, LLC American Legion Auxiliary Kim Ruebke and Family Chester Rotary Club Ida, Gary and Stan Gaertner Chester Electrical Supply, Inc Rosemary Bert Alpha Upsilon Master Buena Vista National Bank Michael & Mary Sulser Randolph County Housing Authority Dr. James and Betty Krieg Jeanne Kleinschmidt Colvis Investment Services Falkenhein Accounting & Tax Service, P.C. St. Mary's Knights of Columbus Guice G. Strong Chester Animal Hospital, LLC Chester Masonic Lodge Chester Eagles Chester National Bank The Honorable Judge Schuwerk & Mrs. Evelyn Schuwerk Gilster Mary Lee Donna Clendenin Chester VFW Sandra Benedict Benson's Wine Bar William and Patty Nanney Partners Hometown Insurance Agency Dr. Stephen and Diane Platt Deepanjali Dummi Tom and Vicki Search Robert and Brenda Owen

Dr. James Krieg December 31, 2024, marked the end of an era as Dr. James Krieg concluded his distinguished career as a Family Healthcare Physician at Memorial Hospital’s Rural Health Clinics. With an impressive 45 years of service in Chester, IL, Dr. Krieg has provided compassionate and comprehensive care to countless patients. Dr. Krieg began his practice on January 1, 1980, joining Doctors Isreal Newmark, Milton Zemlyn, and Stephen Platt, who were the lead physicians at the Chester Clinic and part of the Medical Staff at Memorial Hospital. His decision to practice in Chester was driven by his appreciation for the stability of the practice and the welcoming community. Throughout his tenure, Dr. Krieg has enjoyed the variety of care he has been able to provide, from performing small surgical procedures and delivering many babies early in his career in the Obstetrics Department (OB) to offering extensive personal care daily. His greatest joy has been the hope that he has made a difference in the lives of those he has cared for. Dr. Krieg has cherished working with the dedicated team of nurses, providers, and staff who prioritize patient-centered care. Reflecting on his time at Memorial, Dr. Krieg shared, "There is a feeling of teamwork; each person doing their best to meet the needs of the patients." He fondly recalls his favorite memories, saying, "Growing 'old' with those who have been with Memorial Hospital and Chester Clinic for many years. We have shared many 'interesting' experiences. Also, I have enjoyed working alongside some whom I delivered while doing OB." Dr. Krieg has seen many improvements throughout the years, noting, "The hospital continued to expand, remodel, and push toward staying up to date with changing technology. The most recent development of the Medical Office Building will give years of service for the providers and community." As he embarks on his well-deserved retirement, Dr. Krieg looks forward to spending more time with his family and volunteering. He humorously shared, "My daughter gave me a clock with hour, minute, and second hands but the numbers are all at the bottom, scattered. The inscription reads, 'Whatever...I'm Retired!'" His contributions to Memorial the community have been invaluable, and his presence will be greatly missed. He expressed what he will miss most, "Serving others; medicine allows the unique opportunity to help people navigate the uncertainties of life. I have been blessed with the strength and health to spend the last 45 years doing what I have loved. Remember: God first, others second, I'm third." To honor Dr. Krieg’s remarkable career and dedication, Memorial Hospital invites the community to a retirement party open house on January 25th at the Chester Country Club from 2-4 pm. Please join us in celebrating Dr. Krieg’s legacy and wishing him joy and health in his retirement. Dr. Krieg has been a valued asset to Memorial and the Chester community, and we are forever grateful for the care and compassion he has shown. We wish him all the best in this new chapter of his life.

Memorial Hospital is proud to announce the retirement of Carol Schulein-Buch, storeroom manager, after an extraordinary 48 years of dedicated service.   Carol began her journey at Memorial Hospital on August 1, 1976, as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Ward Clerk. After three years in this role, she transitioned to the storeroom manager position, where she has served for an impressive 45 years. Throughout her tenure, Carol has been a cornerstone of the hospital, ensuring that all departments were well-supplied with everything from office materials to critical medical supplies.   Reflecting on her time at Memorial, Carol shared, "   Working at Memorial has always been rewarding. In my early days as a CNA and ward clerk, I took care of patients when we had 80-100 patients in-house. I witnessed many babies being born and now see them with their own families. In my later years, working in materials management, I ensured that various departments had the supplies they needed. Knowing that these supplies helped improve health and, in some cases, saved lives, was incredibly fulfilling."   Carol's career is marked by countless memories and friendships. “I have countless memories, from forming long-lasting friendships that became like family to sharing many laughs. I've witnessed many changes, with almost all departments moving from their original locations. I was especially pleased to see the new Medical Office Building open."   Known affectionately as "work mom" by many of her younger colleagues, Carol has been a source of wisdom and support, always ready to offer advice and share in the joys and challenges of her coworkers' lives. "I will miss seeing everyone on a daily basis as I delivered supplies throughout the building. I will always treasure catching up on their families and being there for each other through good and bad times."   As Carol embarks on her well-deserved retirement, she looks forward to making new memories with her husband, who is also retiring. They plan to spend time with their children and grandchildren, enjoy the outdoors, tend to the flower garden, and watch the hummingbirds. Carol also looks forward to catching up with old friends and reading.   Memorial Hospital extends its deepest gratitude to Carol Schulein-Buch for her unwavering dedication and service. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the hospital and the community it serves. We wish her all the best in her retirement.

During the construction and renovation phase at Memorial Hospital, a photo contest was held to select local photos as artwork for the new spaces. The response was overwhelming, with multiple talented individuals submitting their work. Staff had the pleasure of anonymously selecting the photos they liked best for their new space. We are thrilled to announce the selected photographers whose beautiful images now adorn the new Medical Office Building and Memorial Hospital Outpatient Lab.   Charles Bargman of Chester had his photo of thick snow clinging to the branches on Fern Valley Road in winter selected. The tranquil and stunning scene is displayed in the main hallway of the new Chester Clinic.   Patricia Bradley of Ellis Grove had her photo of Tower Rock chosen for the new Lab at the Hospital. Taken from the Missouri side of the river, her image captures the large earth monument during a low river stage at sunset, with people walking around the rim of the stone visible in the left panel. Michael Feaman from Ellis Grove , a retiree from Memorial Hospital, submitted a vibrant photo of an orange sunset along the shadowed skyline of Ellis Grove. This striking image now stands out on the walls of the Chester Clinic. Keri Hamilton and son Brantley Hamilton of Rockwood   both had photographs selected for the new Convenient Care side of the Medical Office Building. Brantley's photos, taken for a 4-H project, include a combine during a wheat harvest and a cow at dusk, which can also be found in the new Specialty Clinic. Keri's photo features her daughter, helping daddy, as they walk past a large planter. Karla Klindworth of Chester had two photos selected: a flagpole during a full moon, decorating the waiting room in the Medical Office Building outpatient lab, and a serene seat along the Mississippi, displayed in the Chester Clinic and Hospital outpatient lab.   Heather Phelps from Chester and RN at Memorial captured a stunning view of a pond following a day of fishing. Her photo is a focal point at the end of the hallway at the Chester Clinic for all to see. The pristine lake reflects the sunset sky beautifully, creating a double image of the fantastic colors.   John Reith of Chester had multiple photos chosen for the first photo contest at Memorial Hospital, displayed in patient rooms on the Medical Surgical Unit. His new submission for Convenient Care depicts a long-lost tractor entangled in green vines and trees, discarded in Tilden. Megan Schoenherr of O’Fallon submitted her photo titled “Morning Landing” for the photo contest. A lover of art and photography with family ties to the Chester area, she was honored to have her photo selected. The beauty and splendor of the up-close shot highlights the details of the colorful Monarch butterfly on the bright pink flower. Emily Waeltz of Marissa , who previously had her photos selected for the new Specialty Clinic, had additional images chosen for the new Medical Office Building. Her sunflowers grace the walls of the Chester Clinic, and her new photo of a combine wrapping up the day at sunset is displayed in the triage room of Convenient Care.   Rick Weber of Waterloo had his photo of cherry blossoms in full bloom chosen for the Chester Clinic halls. This beautiful tree, planted in memory of a loved one, resides in his front yard. He was honored to share the beauty of this tree with the staff and patients at the clinic.   Lisa Wingerter of Chester and LPN at Memorial had her photo of an antique silo from a property in Rockwood selected. The shiny ceramic tiles of the large cylindrical structure along with the soft green moss in the cement seams provide a stunning shot on a sunny day.   Andria Zweigart of Evansville and Director of Diagnostic Imaging at Memorial had her close-up shot of red coral bells selected. The bright colors and enhanced imagery decorate the hallways of the Chester Clinic nicely.   Each winner received a gift of appreciation from Memorial. “The response from patients and photographers has been heartwarming,” said Mariah Bargman, Marketing and Community Relations Coordinator. “The photographers were honored to share their artwork with the community, and the patients and staff enjoy the beautiful imagery. It becomes a topic of conversation and joy. We love to hear the stories behind each photo.”   Memorial Hospital is proud to showcase the incredible talent of our local photographers and is grateful for their contributions to making our new spaces more welcoming and beautiful.

L-R: Susan Diddlebock, Paige Gendron, Ashley Schroeder, Dylan Dungan, and Kim Fedderke. On December 18, 2024, Memorial Hospital of Chester held a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses recognition ceremony. The DAISY Foundation was established in 1999 by the family of Patrick Barnes. Patrick died at 33 from complications of the autoimmune disease ITP. During his hospitalization, the family was very impressed by the clinical care of the nurses who care for Pat. So much so that they created a foundation to thank nurses that have grown to be international. This is their way of saying thank you to nurses for the extraordinary care they provide patients and families every day. DAISY is an acronym standing for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.   Nominees, for the second half of 2024, were presented with a pin and certificate. The nominees were: Rebekah Brueggemann, RN; Dylan Dungan, LPN; Kim Fedderke, RN; Paige Gendron, RN; and Kaity Smith, RN House Supervisor; all at Memorial Hospital and Ashley Schroeder, LPN at the Rural Health Clinics.   Memorial Hospital’s Daisy Award Honoree for the second half of 2024 is Dylan Dungan. Dylan received two nominations from patients. The submissions commended him for providing wonderful care, compassion, and grace for ALL patients.     During the ceremony, Susan Diddlebock, Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial, expressed her gratitude to staff following the reading of nominations. “Thank you to our nurses and staff for your commitment to healing here at Memorial Hospital. We hope that you will wear your DAISY pins proudly.”   Anyone can nominate a nurse for a DAISY Award. Nominations can be done at any time by paper or electronically at www.mhchester.com/DAISY-nominations . DAISY Award Recipient Dylan Dungan - " I have been to this ER many times and never have I gotten as wonderful of care as I have gotten today. This staff of ER nurses and ER doctor (Dr. Scott) are absolutely amazing and deserve recognition. I have got the best of care. I want to nominate Dylan Dugan for the Daisy award. " " Dylan is one of the most compassionate people I know. There are people that come into the ER that are a lot less fortunate then we are and can be hard to handle or unclean, even yelling and cussing, but Dylan always has a way to calm them down with his compassion, his kind words, or something as simple as 'Can I get you something?'. I said to him one day, 'Dylan, you are so kind to people and they love you so much.' His response to me was 'compassion can go along way.' He is absolutely right. We never know what a person may be going through and how a little compassion can go a long way. Thank you Dylan for you compassion and hard work. The world needs more people like you. " DAISY Award Nominations Rebekah Brueggemann - " She is very kind and polite. She is funny and is a very good nurse." Kim Fedderke - " From the very first time she walked into the room, she made me feel comfortable talking with her. I actually went to high school with her husband and she took care of my dad while he was getting his treatment. She also knows my sister, but this was the first time we had met. She made sure I had everything I needed and made sure I understood the new drugs and what they were for. We shared stories about our lives and memories of my nephew. Her son looked after him when he was younger as a big brother/protector. She surely made that last day in ICU go a little quicker. Kim is a sweet lady and a wonderful nurse." Paige Gendron - " I have been to this ER many times and never have I gotten as wonderful care as I have gotten today. This staff of ER nurses and ER doctor (Dr. Scott) are absolutely amazing and deserve recognition. I have got the best care. And I nominate Paige Gendron for the Daisy award." Ashley Schroeder - " Ashley is very kind, professional, considerate, helpful, and caring. She listens to you and understands you concerns. She also has a very sweet personality." Kaity Smith - " My mother was brought to the ED after having a possible seizure. She was transferred to Barnes in St. Louis. The ambulance service was very busy and delayed for several hours. Kaity switched beds for my mother, which made her wait more comfortable and also brought in a recliner so I would also be more comfortable. She also took the time to talk with my mother and made sure she was mentally prepared for the transfer. Kaity went above and beyond to make us comfortable. She is an asset to the ED."

Memorial Hospital, located in Chester, Illinois, is proud to announce it has achieved accreditation through the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) for the services of Home Sleep Testing and Sleep Lab Center Services. Elizabeth Brown, RPSGT, Sleep Technician and Georgia Stipe CRT, RPSGT, Director of Cardiopulmonary and Sleep Lab Accreditation is a process through which healthcare organizations demonstrate compliance with national standards. Accreditation by ACHC reflects an organization’s dedication and commitment to meeting standards that facilitate a higher level of performance and patient care. "This recognition reflects our dedication to providing exceptional care and our commitment to meeting rigorous standards. It assures our patients that they are receiving the highest quality of sleep care available," states Georgia Stipe, Cardiopulmonary and Sleep Lab Director. Memorial Hospital provides high-quality healthcare services to the residents of Chester and the surrounding communities. The hospital offers a wide range of services, including inpatient and outpatient care, specialty services, diagnostic imaging, emergency care, and community health programs. Their team of healthcare professionals is not only highly skilled but also deeply invested in the well-being of their patients. They take pride in their award-winning accomplishments and their ability to deliver top-tier healthcare in a secure and safe environment.   ACHC is a nonprofit organization that has stood as a symbol of quality and excellence since 1986. ACHC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and has CMS deeming authority for Home Health, Hospice and DMEPOS.

Memorial Hospital is proud to announce that it has been named a National Rural Rating System (NRRS) 5-Star Hospital for the third year in a row. This prestigious recognition is based on Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) patient satisfaction scores for overnight stays, with rankings compiled using data from certified Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services vendors.   Memorial Hospital is one of only 22 NRRS 5-star recipients nationwide and one of just four hospitals in Illinois to receive this honor. The NRRS five-star rating reflects Memorial’s ongoing commitment to meeting the unique healthcare needs of the rural community it serves. This recognition highlights the hospital’s success in providing outstanding medical services, despite the challenges often faced by rural healthcare facilities.  “We are incredibly honored to receive the NRRS 5-Star rating,” said Brett Bollmann, CEO of Memorial Hospital. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We remain committed to providing exceptional healthcare services to our community and will continue to strive for excellence in all that we do.”   Memorial Hospital extends its heartfelt thanks to its dedicated team of healthcare professionals, whose efforts and unwavering commitment to patient care have made this achievement possible. Memorial Hospital is proud to be a “Partner in Building a Healthier Community”.

Memorial Hospital is excited to announce the launch of this year's Medical Explorers Program, a unique opportunity for high school students to gain hands-on experience in various medical fields. This program aims to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals by providing them with an immersive look into the medical industry. The Medical Explorers Program is designed to offer students a comprehensive understanding of different medical departments and the roles within them. This year, participants will have the chance to explore the following departments: ER Nursing, Dentistry with Chester Family Dental, OR Nursing, Memorial's Rural Health Clinic, Diagnostic Imaging, Medical Laboratory, and Pharmacy. Additionally, students will participate in a First Responder Night at the Chester Fire House, where they will learn about emergency response and the critical role of first responders in the Fire Department, Police Department, and EMS Ambulance. We are proud to welcome a diverse group of students from various schools and grades. Chester High School: Monica Anaya, Brenna Astin, Aubry Bowles, Gabe Coffman, Natalie Guetersloh, Natalie Guethle, Emily Heinemeyer, Kaylin Jany, Olivia Sellers, Rylee Shemonic, Jessie Stumpe, Kenna Thompson, Taylor Throop, and Morgan Throop. Gibault High School: Peyton Schaefer. Red Bud High School: Katie Deterding. Steeleville High School: Emma Batson, Elly Buch, Karlie Kranz, Kamryn Patterson, Lexi Smith, Ella Tripp, Karsen Wedemeyer, and Madilynn Yates. Trico High School: Aubrey Cotter, Makayla Gordon, Madi Holt, Adie Knop, and Jaelyn Kranawetter. These students will engage in practical activities and observe professionals in action, gaining valuable insights into the medical field. Explorers will have the opportunity to job shadow and interact with experienced healthcare providers, ask questions, and receive guidance on pursuing a career in healthcare. Memorial Hospital is committed to improving the quality of life for the communities we serve through exceptional healthcare and service excellence. Our Medical Explorers Program is just one of the many ways we strive to inspire and educate future, rural, healthcare professionals.

Memorial Hospital hosted their Fall Party at the VFW in Chester on Friday, November 1st. Service Awards Many employees were celebrated for their years of service. Brett Bollmann, CEO, presented the following employees with their Service Awards: 5 Years , Rebekah Brueggemann, Tabatha Colvis, Amanda Crites, Deepa Dummi, Mary Lynn Eaton, Stephanie Guethle, Stephanie Knop, Tammy Light, April Loos, Tina Pickett, Sarah Rathert, Kristen Schwartz, and Krystal Willis. 10 Years , Valerie Blechle, CyBill DeRousse, Amelia Goetz, Trevor Kelkhoff, Angela Ledbetter, Joetta McFarland, Amanda Rhyne, and David Salger. 15 Years , Angela Albertini and Laurie Pecaut. 20 Years , Lisa LaRose, Allyson McGee, Emily Schroeder, Debra Stenberg, and Denise Wilson. 25 Years , Renee Brown, Carrie Jo Dierks, and Tara Wittenborn. 30 Years , Dr. Lisa Lowry-Rohlfing and Melissa Soellner. 35 Years , Kenneth Stout. Retirees Following the Service Awards, the 2024 retirees were recognized for their years of services as well. Those honored included: Tia Reid - 15 Years, Donna Martin in Memoriam - 20 Years, Donna Schroeder - 21 Years, Laura Cleiman - 22 Years, Kari Schaefer - 22 Years, Carla Fedderke - 28 Years, Jeanette Decker - 31 Years, Deb Mevert - 37 Years, and Sue Robinson - 44 Years. Israel D. Newmark Award Memorial Hospital proudly announced the recipient of the 2024 Israel D. Newmark Memorial Award at the event. This year’s honoree, Ryan Petrowske, received the award from Chief of Staff, Dr. James Krieg. The Israel D. Newmark Memorial Award, established in 1988 by the Newmark family, is a prestigious accolade given annually to an outstanding employee who has significantly contributed to the quality of patient care at the hospital. This award celebrates individuals who demonstrate dedication, positivity, exceptional work ethic, and a strong commitment to the hospital’s mission and values. Ryan Petrowske, who has been a project foreman in the Maintenance Department since 2016, was praised by his colleagues for his exemplary service. Dr. Krieg shared their sentiments, stating, “This employee exemplifies Memorial Hospital’s mission through their dedication, positivity, and exceptional work ethic. They are a role model who values quality, safety, and teamwork, consistently going the extra mile and making others feel valued. Their significant contributions to the new Medical Office Building and their commitment to the hospital’s best interests highlight their integrity and genuine commitment to their job.”   Expressing his gratitude, Petrowske said, “I like having an opportunity to do construction work close to home that truly impacts our community. I see many friends walk through our doors needing healthcare services. Working here I get to be part of an amazing team that provides that service. It has been a privilege to have the opportunity to work with so many incredible people.”

Memorial Hospital is pleased to announce the opening of the Chester Clinic in the newly constructed Medical Office Building (MOB) connected to the hospital. This state-of-the-art facility, which began construction on September 5, 2023, is now operational ahead of its original early 2025 completion date, with the clinic celebrating their ribbon cutting on October 28, 2024.   The new location offers a comprehensive range of services, including primary care excellence with routine check-ups, preventive care, and chronic condition management provided by our Family Practice Providers. Patients can now access advanced imaging and laboratory testing conveniently located down the hall. Additionally, the Memorial Community Pharmacy offers convenient prescription pick-ups. Designed with staff workflows and patient convenience in mind, the building features a spacious canopy for easy patient drop-off and a covered hallway that seamlessly connects it to the existing hospital.   “We are thrilled to open the Chester Clinic in this modern facility, which shows our commitment to providing exceptional care and convenience to our patients,” said Brett Bollmann, CEO of Memorial Hospital. “This move enhances access to primary care and integrates our services more closely, ensuring a smoother experience for our community.”   The clinic will operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours available on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 7:00am. The Steeleville Family Practice will remain open and continue to serve patients in the Steeleville area, ensuring that the community has access to the same high-quality, compassionate care they have come to rely on.   Convenient Care will also be opening in the MOB at a later date, with walk-in services for non-emergency medical needs. This addition will provide patients with greater flexibility and access to care for minor illnesses and injuries, further enhancing the comprehensive healthcare services available at Memorial Hospital.   In addition to the new clinic space, the MOB project includes significant upgrades to the existing parking lot and drive, such as a drive-thru for prescription pick-ups at the Memorial Community Pharmacy. These improvements are part of Memorial Hospital’s long-term strategy to enhance patient-centered healthcare, safety, and employee well-being.   Over the past six years, Memorial Hospital has continuously updated its facilities to meet the evolving needs of the community. “At Memorial, we are committed to delivering professional excellence and ensuring the delivery of safe, quality healthcare, compassion, and outstanding service to our patients, the community, and our staff,” added Bollmann. “We are dedicated to building a healthier community and are grateful for our skilled staff who support our mission and provide exceptional care to our patients.”

Brett Bollmann, CEO at Memorial Hospital named Charles Bargman II Employee of the Quarter for the Third Quarter 2024 on October 9, 2024.   Charles Bargman II, Maintenance Technician and Bio Med Coordinator, has worked at Memorial Hospital since December 2023. When asked what he likes most about working at Memorial, he replied, “the small town, family-like atmosphere. Everyone is willing to help each other out.”    His co-workers who nominated him wrote, “he is very responsive when work order tickets are put in for maintenance and helping to get items fixed. He wants to make sure things are done correctly and works well with staff. He recently had to deal with a hazmat and decontamination situation and took charge, handling the situation well. He made sure the staff were safe and is always professional. He listens to concerns, is helpful, calm, knowledgeable, and a problem solver.”   Bargman resides in Chester, IL with his wife Mariah and their two boys, Duncan and Evan. Outside of the hospital he enjoys spending time with his family and friends and serving his community with the Chester Fire Department and Randolph County Emergency Management.   Each quarter employees are encouraged to submit “star cards” for their co-workers who go above and beyond in their patient care or teamwork. Four random cards were drawn at the award presentation for Melissa Collins, Linen Clerk; Adrianne Caby, Surgery RN; Deana Tudor, Surgery RN; and Richard Clasen, Director of Information Systems.

The Wound Center at Memorial Hospital's Specialty Clinic is proud to announce that it has been honored with the RestorixHealth Excellence in Patient Satisfaction Award. This award is a testament to the clinic’s unwavering commitment to providing superior patient care and achieving outstanding patient satisfaction. The Wound Center at Memorial Hospital isn't just a place for treatment. Specializing in non-healing wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers, venous ulcers, and pressure ulcers, the center's dedication to each patient's well-being is truly commendable. Led by Dr. Margret DeGuzman and Angela Albertini, PA-C, the team at Memorial's Wound Center combines expertise and empathy to deliver unparalleled care. Recipients of the RestorixHealth Excellence in Patient Satisfaction Award have demonstrated exceptional performance in overall patient satisfaction, reflecting the dedication and hard work of the entire wound center staff. This recognition underscores the clinic’s mission to deliver high-quality, compassionate care to all patients. Patient excellence isn't just a goal at Memorial's Wound Center; it's a standard.