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For a full list of clinic hours, locations, and phone numbers, please visit Hours of Operation – JCMG.

JCMG Welcomes Brandon Jenson, DO, General Surgeon

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Jefferson City Medical Group is pleased to welcome Brandon Jenson, D.O., who joined JCMG Surgical Specialists on February 1. Dr. Jenson brings a new service line to JCMG: foregut surgery and hiatal hernia repair. Dr. Jenson comes to JCMG with extensive expertise and training. After graduating from medical school at Kirksville […]

2023 Holidoors

Photos of our 2023 Holidoors Contest are viewable here and in a facebook album as of December 11, 2023. To view the photos any time (even after voting here), go to our facebook page. The winning Holidoor will be the photo with the most combined facebook reactions and website poll votes. Voting is open to […]

JCMG Reaches Contract Agreement with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

JCMG will remain in-network for patients with Anthem health insurance. Jefferson City, Mo. – November 7, 2023 Jefferson City Medical Group (JCMG) and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (also known as Elevance Health) reached a mutually acceptable agreement late November 7, 2023. With this signed contract, JCMG will remain in-network for its approximately 30,000 patients […]

2023 Pumpkins

Photos of our 2023 Pumpkin Decorating Contest are viewable here and in a facebook album as of October 23, 2023. To view the photos any time (even after voting here), go to our facebook page. The winning Pumpkin will be the photo with the most combined facebook reactions and website poll votes. Voting is open […]

JCMG Enters Contract Negotiations with Anthem

JCMG attempts to reach a resolution with Anthem before the current contract expires.  Jefferson City Medical Group (JCMG) and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (also known as Elevance Health) are currently negotiating their contract. JCMG entered contract negotiations with Anthem to secure the future of independent healthcare in mid-Missouri. “During times of high inflation and […]

Flu Shots 2023-2024

Getting your flu shot is easy at JCMG! Ask during a doctor’s visit, walk in to Express Care, walk in to your primary care physician’s office, or schedule an appointment. Ask During Your Visit: If you’re at JCMG for any visit, simply ask your provider for a flu shot. Many providers will be able to […]

JCMG Express Care Clinic Opening Fall 2023

Fulton, MO – September 18, 2023 Jefferson City Medical Group (JCMG) and Callaway County will host a grand opening of the JCMG Express Care clinic on Wednesday, October 11 at 4:30 p.m. at the newly remodeled facility in Fulton. JCMG and Callaway County have partnered with the Callaway Chamber of Commerce to hold a ribbon-cutting […]

JCMG Celebrates 30 Years

Jefferson City Medical Group to host a 30th Anniversary Celebration for the community. Jefferson City Medical Group (JCMG) will commemorate its 30th anniversary with a community celebration on Saturday, September 16. Since its establishment in 1993, JCMG has grown to be one of the largest independent multispecialty groups in the region with over 30 specialties, […]

JCMG Brings Dialysis Clinic, Inc. to the JCMG Medical Building

Jefferson City, MO – June 5, 2023 Jefferson City Medical Group announces that the Dialysis Clinic, Inc. will be moving into the former Outpatient Surgery Center on the lower level of the JCMG Medical Building at 1241 W Stadium Blvd. Construction will begin June 12, 2023. During construction, the parking lot on the west side […]

Missouri’s Best 2023 Winners

Congratulations to the following physicians and clinics of JCMG for being voted Missouri’s Best for 2023! Best Medical Group JCMG Women & Children’s Center (JCMG Pediatrics & Women’s Clinic) Best OB/GYN Amanda Rodemann, DO, FACOG of Women’s Clinic of JCMG Best Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Clinic JCMG Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Best Podiatrist JP McAleer, […]

Flu Shots 2022-2023

Getting your flu shot is easy at JCMG! Ask during a doctor visit, walk in to Express Care, walk in to your PCP’s office, or schedule an appointment. Ask During Your Visit: If you’re at JCMG for any visit, simply ask your provider for a flu shot. Many providers will be able to give you […]

Updated Laboratory Hours

Until further notice, the JCMG Laboratory will have adjusted hours on Saturdays. Starting, Saturday, August 27th, the Lab’s hours will be: Monday – Friday: 7am – 5pm Saturday & Sunday: Closed View JCMG’s most up-to-date hours of operation here.

Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine Available at JCMG

Last updated: August 10, 2022 What is the Novavax Vaccine? Novavax is a subunit (or acellular) vaccine, which is the same type of vaccine as Hepatitis B and DTaP (Diphtheria, Pertussis and Acellular Pertussis). This vaccine type has been well-established for many decades. Availability of the Vaccine JCMG currently has a very limited allocation of […]

COVID-19 Vaccination | 6-Month-Old

Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccines are available for children ages 6 months and older Key details on this vaccine: All COVID-19 vaccines for children have the same active ingredients as the adult versions. The vaccine dose for children is a lesser strength vaccine compared to the one given to adults. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 […]

Don’t Ditch Your New Year’s Resolutions!

January 17th is Ditch New Year’s Resolutions Day. It only two and a half weeks into the new year before many people quit on their resolutions. Don’t let that be you! We have confidence that you can keep going—and at JCMG, we have an expert team to help you along the way. We’re turning today into […]

Pfizer COVID-19 Pediatric Vaccination

COVID-19 vaccine

The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine is approved for children ages 5 and older. Key details on this vaccine: FDA has issued Emergency Use Authorization for 5 through 11 years of age. Primary series of 2 doses (0.2mL each) given 21 days apart. Common side effects can include pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, along […]

Cards for Soldiers 2021

JCMG is collecting letters to mail to active military overseas—and we need your help! We’re accepting any form of letter: cards in an envelope, blank pages covered in crayon, or our coloring pages. You can drop off cards or pages at the Information Desk at our Stadium campus (furthest right entrance, 1241 W Stadium Blvd). […]

2021 Winter Weather Drive

The Season of Giving has begun! JCMG is proud to host our First Annual Winter Weather Drive! The Winter Weather Drive will run from November 17th-29th.  Collection barrels will be located at each of the entrances at the JCMG Medical Building 1241 W Stadium Blvd, Jefferson City, MO 65109 Donations accepted: new or lightly worn hats, scarves, […]

Weight Treatment Center Team

Christopher Case, M.D. and Alan Rauba, M.D. launched the New Direction and Outlook programs in February 2003 at Jefferson City Medical Group. Prior to establishing his practice in Jefferson City, Dr. Case had worked with a New Direction program while completing his fellowship and conducting research at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. He […]

Flu Shots 2021-2022

Getting your flu shot is easy at JCMG: ask during a doctor visit or walk in to your PCP’s office. Walk-Ins Accepted for Established Patients: FAMILY MEDICINE JCMG Family Medicine Stadium: 1241 Stadium Blvd, JC MO (573) 635-JCMG INTERNAL MEDICINE JCMG Internal Medicine: 1241 Stadium Blvd, JC MO (573) 556-1703 Missouri Valley Physicians: 2303 South Highway […]

COVID Response – July 2021

Due to federal guidance for healthcare facilities and the increase in COVID-19 cases throughout Central Missouri, masks for patients and staff regardless of vaccination status, are required in clinical areas starting Monday, July 26. A “clinical area” is defined as any area where a patient and staff member interact, and includes wearing a mask when […]

COVID-19 Vaccine Update

COVID-19 vaccine

JCMG is excited at the opportunity to protect our community as a future site for COVID-19 vaccinations. For the most recent up-to-date information on the COVID Vaccine from JCMG, visit www.jcmg.org/covid Vaccine Availability The Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services are distributing COVID-19 vaccines in phases, and are not yet available to patients at […]

Reversing Type 2 Diabetes

by Christopher Case, M.D. It is that time of the year again to set New Year’s resolutions. These often include losing weight, eating healthy, and exercising. If you are an individual with type 2 diabetes, improving blood glucose levels may be one of your resolutions. First, and foremost, talk with your health care provider, licensed […]

Lung Cancer Awareness Month, November 2020

lung cancer

by Shadi Haddadin, M.D., CPE   Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in women and men in 2020. Despite representing 12-13% of new cancer cases in 2020, it is responsible for 22-23% of cancer deaths in the United States. According to American Cancer Society (ACS), the estimated new lung cancer cases in the […]

Breast Cancer in 2020

by Shadi Haddadin, M.D., CPE  Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer in women and is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States. According to American Cancer Society (ACS), in 2020, the estimated new female breast cancer cases in the state of Missouri would be 5,360 with an expected […]

Dr Rucker’s Dish – Diets vs Lifestyle

One of the hardest things for me to hear is, “I am dieting.“ Dieting means that it is temporary and most the time extreme. This makes it often unsustainable. That’s why I tell patients, you are not dieting, you are making a lifestyle change. The diet goals that you make should be realistic and something […]

COVID-19: New Information August 2020

How long should I be quarantined if I’ve been infected or believe I’m infected? Once you are 10 days after the onset of symptoms and have been fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medications, patients appear to stop shedding virus and are no longer contagious. If you have been directed to quarantine by the health […]

Dr. Rucker’s Dish – Warming up

By Rachel Rucker, D.O. Warming up is just as important as the workout itself. It is difficult to do a workout if you hurt yourself. My track coaches in high school as well as my track coach in college trained me that you are properly warmed up whenever you are drenched in sweat. This can […]

Dr. Rucker’s Dish – Motivation to Workout

By Rachel Rucker, D.O. It’s easy to do nothing, it’s hard to do something you’ve never done before. The very first step in working out happens even before you enter your workout space. You have to get your mind right. If your mind doesn’t want to do it, you will find every excuse in the […]

Dr. Rucker’s Dish – What’s for lunch?

By Rachel Rucker, D.O. Diet: What’s for lunch? Eating lunch is essential and what you eat is equally important because it determines your energy level for the rest of the day. I have found that most people fall in one of two categories. A. Either they are so busy that they do not eat lunch […]

Dr. Rucker’s Dish — Late Night Sweet Tooth

By Rachel Rucker, D.O. Is late night sweet tooth calling out to you? Not going to lie, this is one of my own downfalls. I wish I could remember who told me this trick, because it has saved me so many times. Put a picture of an apple on your fridge or pantry. If you […]

Introducing Dr. Rucker’s Dish — A Series on Health and Fitness

By Rachel Rucker, D.O. After much resistance, and after a lot of encouragement from my patients, I have decided to start blogging about diet, exercise and anxiety. I have resisted because I am very much an introvert and sharing my thoughts and opinions really isn’t my thing. But today I had a patient who told […]

Coronavirus: If You Traveled, Call Before You Come

At JCMG, we’re working hard to make sure that we can care for our community while at the same time minimizing exposure risk of the new coronavirus (COVID-19). Thank you for following the guidelines below and helping us keep Mid-Missouri healthy. For basic questions regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) and general exposure concerns, please call the Missouri […]

Coronavirus (COVID-19): What You Need to Know

Since the first cases identified in China in December 2019, coronavirus or COVID-19 has affected over 100,000 people world-wide. The CDC has compiled a guide with everything you need to know about COVID-19, from symptoms, preventing the spread, travel advisories and more.    

Chronic Renal Failure: What you Need to Know

What is Renal Failure? It is the kidney’s inability to effectively remove wastes, toxins and electrolytes from the body. Causes of Chronic Renal Failure: Diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney stones or cancer and frequent kidney infections are a few of the diseases or conditions which may cause chronic renal failure. Risk Factors: Diabetes, high blood […]

Online Check-In Is Now Available at Four Express Care Locations

Online check-in has arrived at Express Care of JCMG and is now available at all four Jefferson City locations. Through our partnership with Solv Health, you can now easily save a spot in line, quickly and easily from your phone. You can now book a next day or same day appointment at any of the […]

FREE Men’s Health Seminar

Erectile dysfunction (ED), low testosterone (Low T) or male stress urinary incontinence (SUI)? Looking for more information? If you’re interested in learning more about one or any of these conditions, join us for a FREE Men’s Health Seminar. When | February 20, 2020 Where | JCMG Employee Training Room Time | Registration: 5:45 PM   […]

Express Care Online Check-In Has Arrived!

Online check-in has arrived at Express Care of JCMG! Through our partnership with Solv Health, you can now easily save a spot in line, quickly and easily from your phone. Online check-in is available in two of our four Jefferson City Express Care locations beginning January 22 — Express Care West by Capital Mall, and […]

Rapid Molecular Testing

Now Available at JCMG – Faster and More Accurate Testing for Strep, Influenza, and RSV Now at all JCMG clinics and Express Care locations, JCMG and MMG are offering rapid molecular testing for faster and more accurate diagnosis of strep, influenza, and RSV. When you or your loved one is ill – keep in mind […]

CITY’S Best 2020

JCMG is honored to have been recognized in three different categories in Jefferson CITY Magazine’s CITY’s Best 2020 awards! Best Doctor Dr. Alfred Johnson – 1st Place   Best Chiropractor Dr. Tanner Coleman – 2nd Place   Best Pharmacy JCMG Pharmacy – 2nd Place   We are truly humbled by the support from the Jefferson […]

Our New EHR: eClinicalWorks

Our new Electronic Health Record is live! eClinicalWorks launched January 4th, 2021, replacing Allscripts. This new EHR has endless possibilities for us at JCMG, with dozens of program plugins to reduce redundancy and bringing all of a patient’s information into one location. How eClinicalWorks helps YOU, the patient: While we’re excited for how ECW will […]

Dr. Uhrig- Show Me State Male Athlete of 2019

Congratulations to Dr. Uhrig, Show Me State Male Athlete of the year 2019! From Marshall, Jack Uhrig is a multi-sport athlete. This year alone, he won gold in the powerlifting meet in the bench press and deadlift, 5 gold and 1 silver medal in track and field. He also won gold and broke a record […]

Welcome Jennifer Patrick, LCSW!

Jennifer Patrick, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She offers individual, couple, group, and family therapy for children, teenagers, and adults. She obtained her Bachelor of Social Work from William Woods University and her Masters in Social Work from the University of Missouri- Columbia. Jennifer takes an individualized and collaborative approach to therapy, setting […]

Dr. J.P. McAleer is Featured in Podiatry Today

Dr. J.P. McAleer of JCMG Podiatry has been published in Podiatry Today in an interesting Point/Counterpoint piece about traditional bunion correction techniques vs. realignment techniques like Lapiplasty  Read the article here  

Welcome Molly Omohundro, NP at Express Care West!

Molly Omohundro, NP has joined Express Care West to treat minor illnesses and injuries on a walk-in basis. Molly attended William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri and completed her training at Maryville University in St. Louis. She is a board-certified family nurse practitioner through AANP. Molly was born and raised in Fulton, Missouri and has […]

What You Need to Know: Atrial Fibrillation

  The heart is composed of four chambers. The upper chambers are called the atria and the lower chambers are the ventricles. There are two distinct systems which make the heart beat the way it should. The mechanical system which allows the heart to physically beat and the electrical or conduction system which sends electrical […]

JCMG Patients Share Their Breast Cancer Journey

Each one of these ladies chose JCMG’s Comprehensive Breast Care Team to walk with them every step of the way through their breast cancer journey, and now they want to share their stories with you.  Tonya: DeLayne: Mary:   Margie: The only breast cancer detection and treatment center you need…right here in Jefferson City.

Flu Shots 2019

We offer multiple options for your convince:      Evening Flu Shot Clinics    Located in JCMG Internal Medicine Open to the public NO appointment needed Walk in hours: September 26 (5:30-7:00pm) October 3 (5:30-7:00pm) October 10 (5:30-7:00pm) October 17 (5:30-7:00pm) October 24 (5:30-7:00pm)     Walk In To Express Care Open to the public […]

JCMG’s Newest Shareholders 2019

Over the past year, several doctors have become shareholders, owners/partners, of JCMG. Please join us in congratulating the following doctors: Brad Sloan, D.O. Family Medicine/ Sports Medicine Signed on 11/1/2018     Marcus Wade, M.D. Radiology Signed on 12/19/2018     James Lin, M.D. General Surgery Signed on 1/2/2019     Phillip Wilson III, M.D. […]

Welcome, Dr. Tamara Hopkins

Tamara Hopkins Header

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Jefferson City Medical Group is pleased to welcome Tamara Hopkins, M.D., who joins JCMG Oncology & Hematology on July 1. Together with her team, Dr. Hopkins serves Mid-Missouri with a combined total of over 100 years’ experience treating cancer and caring for patients. After graduating medical school at the University of […]

The Vein Institute of JCMG

We’re very excited to welcome Dr. Phil Rumbaoa, board-certified vein physician, to JCMG. Dr. Rumbaoa is one of less than 800 board-certified phlebologists in the United States and is one of the most experienced vein specialists in Mid-Missouri. Dr. Rumbaoa will be practicing in a rebranded JCMG vein care division called The Vein Institute of […]

Long-Time Mid-Missouri Dermatologist John DeSpain, M.D. Joins MMG

John DeSpain, M.D. Joins Missouri Medical Group

Jefferson City Medical Group is pleased to welcome dermatologist and dermatopathologist John DeSpain, M.D., to Missouri Medical Group (JCMG’s regional extension). Dr. DeSpain, well-known in the Mid-Missouri community, will launch a new practice opening March 4, 2019: Missouri Medical Group Dermatology. Dr. DeSpain attained his undergraduate and medical degree and completed his dermatology residency at […]

MID-MISSOURI CARDIOLOGISTS NOW SEEING PATIENTS AT JCMG

Cardiology Returns To JCMG

Jefferson City Medical Group is pleased to announce that cardiology services have returned to the JCMG campus. Cardiologists from Missouri Heart Center (MHC) are now seeing patients at JCMG weekly. Missouri Heart Center cardiologists John Verbsky, M.D., PhD; James T. Elliott, M.D., F.A.C.C.; Mozow Zuidema, M.D., PhD; and Mark Stampehl, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.H.F.S.A each practices […]

DCI Partners with JCMG to form DCI with JCMG

We are pleased to let you know that JCMG has formed a partnership with Dialysis Clinic, Inc. here in Jefferson City. Dialysis Clinic, Inc. (DCI) is a nationwide non-profit group of dialysis centers. The two DCI locations in Jefferson City have now become “DCI with JCMG.” DCI with JCMG – West 144 Scott Station Rd. […]

JCMG HIRES NEW VP OF MARKETING AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 11/15/2017 Media Contact: Jamie Patterson Jefferson City Medical Group 573-556-7726 jpatterson@jcmg.org   JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Jefferson City Medical Group is pleased to welcome Jamie Patterson as Vice President of Marketing and Business Development. Patterson joins JCMG during a period of unprecedented growth. Her 12 years of marketing experience and considerable expertise […]

Wright Named CFO for JCMG

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Jefferson City Medical Group is pleased to announce that Keri Wright recently started as Chief Financial Officer for the group. Wright is a certified public accountant with more than 15 years of experience in business and accounting. Most recently, she served as the Deputy State Auditor for the State of Missouri. […]

JCMG Welcomes Nephrologist

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Jefferson City Medical Group is pleased to welcome Blake Brooks, M.D., nephrologist. Dr. Brooks completed a fellowship as well as a residency, where he served as chief resident, in nephrology and internal medicine, at the University Hospitals and Clinics in Columbia, Mo. His medical degree was obtained from the University of […]

Experts to Discuss the Latest in Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – October is breast cancer awareness month. Based on current incidence rates, 12.4 percent of women born in the United States today will develop breast cancer at some time during their lives, according to the National Cancer Institute. Although the statistic is alarming, being proactive and informed about the latest prevention and […]

JCMG to Host Book and Gift Fair

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Jefferson City Medical Group will host a Collective Goods Flash Fair (formerly Books Are Fun book and gift fair) on Thursday, November 3, from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Friday, November 4, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the JCMG Medical Building Lobby, 1241 West Stadium Blvd. Just […]

Dr. Imran Ashraf Joins JCMG Gastroenterology

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – JCMG is pleased to welcome gastroenterologist, Imran Ashraf, M.D. Dr. Imran Ashraf recently completed a fellowship in gastroenterology at the University of Missouri – Columbia and Harry S. Truman Veterans’ Hospital, where he also completed his residency. He received his medical degree from the University of Peshawar in Pakistan. While growing […]

JCMG to Host Community 2017 Flu Shot Clinics

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Influenza seasons are unpredictable, and can begin as early as September, which is why now is the time to get your flu shot.  Jefferson City Medical Group, your trusted healthcare provider, wants to keep you healthy this flu season. JCMG will offer community flu shot clinics to everyone age six months through […]

Grand Opening of Express Care of JCMG to be held Sept. 10

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Express Care of JCMG will host a grand opening celebration from 9 a.m. to Noon on Saturday, Sept. 10 at 1735 Elm Court. The open house will feature a ribbon cutting by the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce at 9 a.m., followed by screenings for adults, including: blood pressure checks […]

JCMG Hosts Food Truck Wednesdays to Benefit United Way

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Jefferson City Medical Group will host Food Truck Wednesdays during the month of August to raise money for the United Way of Central Missouri. Lilly’s Cantina will serve lunch from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 10, in the parking lot located behind the JCMG Medical Building. The menu […]

Express Care of JCMG to Open Monday, August 1

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Beginning Monday, August 1, residents on Jefferson City’s east end will have a new, convenient walk-in clinic designed to treat immediate, non-emergent health concerns. Express Care of JCMG will open its doors at 7:00 a.m. Monday, August 1 at 1735 Elm Court. The clinic will be staffed to treat minor fevers, […]

JCMG Awards $4,000 in Health Sciences Scholarships to Area Students

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Jefferson City Medical Group is pleased to announce that five area students, pursuing nursing or pre-medicine degrees, were recently awarded scholarships by the group. The JCMG Health Sciences Scholarships were established in 2009 because of the increasing demand for physicians and nurses due to the aging population and increase in life […]

Book and Gift Fair to Benefit United Way

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Jefferson City Medical Group will host a Books Are Fun book and gift fair on Thursday, June 2, from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Friday, June 3, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the JCMG Medical Building Lobby, 1241 West Stadium Blvd. The book and gift fair will […]

5th Annual Fundraiser Held in Memory of Beloved JCMG Physician

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Jefferson City Medical Group (JCMG) and SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital physicians and clinical staff will take to the basketball court in a battle for bragging rights on Tuesday, May 17. This year marks the 5th anniversary of the “Dribbling Strong” event that began in memory of Dr. Ronald Strong, JCMG […]

Astin Hired as JCMG Vice President of Operations

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Jefferson City Medical Group is pleased to announce that Melissa Astin has been hired as the Vice President of Operations. Astin comes to JCMG from Fort Smith, Arkansas, where she worked for 14 years for one of Arkansas’s largest independently owned multi-specialty groups, serving the last 10 years as Chief Administrative […]

Online Search for Weight Loss Programs in the Community

Identifying Quality and Avoiding Fraud A recent article from a major medical journal examined whether weight loss program descriptions available online offered enough detail to help physicians and consumers identify high-quality programs using evidence-based strategies within their community. Characteristics examined were those assessed in the 2013 research update and consensus by The Obesity Society, American […]

Facts about High Blood Pressure 

Arteries are blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body. Normal arteries are smooth and flexible, and blood flows easily through them. As the blood moves through your arteries, it puts pressure on the artery walls. This is your blood pressure. High blood pressure (also called hypertension) occurs when […]

Helping Diabetics Reduce Medications & Improve Quality of Life

A healthier weight, particularly for diabetics, often translates to a lower risk of complications, improved blood sugar control and reduced medications. However, the process of weight loss often involves frequent changes in physical activity, diet and medications which add to the complexity and challenges for diabetics. The option of a physician-supervised very-low-calorie-diet can help diabetics […]

Registered Dietitian or Nutritionist: What Doctors and Patients Need to Know

Lisa Finley, RD, LD JCMG Weight Treatment Center (573) 556-5774 As January begins and people turn their thoughts to shedding those extra pounds acquired through the holidays, one may consider working with a registered dietitian or…perhaps a nutritionist. Are they the same? As it turns out, no, not in the state of Missouri anyway. It […]

What’s Your Metabolic Rate? Testing Available by Indirect Calorimetry

All individuals have a metabolic rate specific for their body. Testing by indirect calorimetry provides an accurate assessment of Resting Metabolic Rate compared to predictive equations often used to estimate calorie needs. The results are obtained immediately after the 10-minute test and can then be used to determine a plan for achieving goals related to […]

New Direction LCD (Formerly Known as Outlook)

The Outlook© program is a low calorie diet (LCD) which offers a combination approach using a meal replacement product at two meals daily (usually breakfast and lunch) with a food-based meal in the evening.  If more convenient for an individual, the food-based meal could be consumed at lunch instead.  Meal replacements help reduce calorie intake […]

New Direction: A Medically-Supervised Very Low Calorie Program (VLCD)

The New Direction© Program is a medically-supervised Very Low Calorie Diet (VLCD) which utilizes a meal replacement product exclusively to meet an individual’s nutritional needs; no food is consumed while on this program. Depending on an individual’s starting weight, age, gender and activity level, a calorie “prescription” is determined—most usually 600-800 kcal/day for women, 800-1000 […]

Improved Hearing Restores Quality of Life

It is a general consensus that approximately 28 million Americans have some degree of hearing loss. That is one in every ten people! Chances are, everyone knows at least one person with some degree of hearing loss. Many hearing-impaired people live in denial, believing that their hearing is no less than normal. The truth is, […]

Listen to Your Feet

As the colder weather forces us to wear closed toe shoes, the problems that were ignored over the spring and summer are now becoming vastly apparent. Painful lumps and bumps are now more than just a nuisance. They actually start to limit our daily activities especially during this very busy time of year. I would […]

Hunter’s Checklist: Hearing Protection

It’s that time of year again.  The leaves have fallen from the trees, the temperature has dropped and hunters are sighting in their shotguns and rifles as they prepare for the 2010 hunting season. When we think about hunter safety, we typically think bright orange.  Most don’t consider their hearing healthcare as a safety concern. According […]

Advances in Women’s Healthcare

In recent years many technological advances have been made in the treatment of female bladder problems, pelvic prolapse, and heavy menstrual bleeding. Fortunately, many of the procedures can be performed in an office setting with little down time. One such method is Interstim Therapy, a proven neuromodulation therapy for refractory, overactive and spastic bladder. The […]

Pediatric foot deformities – A family affair

The excitement and anticipation of having a new baby can be exhausting and overwhelming, as can the birthing process itself. It is, however, imperative that the new baby be checked over from head-to-toe to ensure that he or she is healthy and off to a great start. Specific attention must be paid to the lower […]

Sun Protection Put to the Test

Every summer I make it a point to discuss sun protection. I know we hear it everywhere, but I can’t stress enough the importance of this one step in your skin care regimen. This summer, I am writing this article while also giving it the ultimate test: I am at the beach. I remember past […]

CT of the Coronary Arteries

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a process in which plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries of the heart.    This plaque, called atherosclerosis, can narrow the arteries, depriving the heart of oxygen, which in turn causes chest pain.  Initially this plaque is soft and waxy in consistency, but over time the plaque will scar and […]

Postmenopausal Preventive Health

Menopause is the permanent end of menses and fertility, defined as occurring 12 months after your last period.  With a life expectancy of close to 80 years, the average woman is postmenopausal for almost a third of her life. Hormone therapy has received an abundance of negative attention.  However, hormone therapy is still highly effective in […]

JCMG Weight Treatment Center

Jennifer wanted to lose weight without bariatric surgery, Dale wanted to control his diabetes without insulin shots, and Lisa just wanted a healthier relationship with food. All three found the solutions they sought at the JCMG Weight Treatment Center. Since opening in 2003, the medically managed weight loss program has helped hundreds of Mid-Missourians lose […]

Permanent Sterilization

Many people refer to permanent sterilization as getting their “tubes tied.”  Permanent sterilization or tubal ligation has been available for many years and over that time many different techniques have been used.  In the past, the techniques for permanent sterilization required one or more incisions in the abdomen.  In 2002 a new method became available […]

There’s More to Sleep than Meets the Eyes

We spend almost one third of our life asleep. Despite this, for centuries, sleep has been mysterious and one of the most poorly understood normal and healthy functioning states. Scientific advances in the last few decades or so have provided better insight and important physiological functions of sleep. Sleep is no longer considered as a […]

Celiac Disease: Why Gluten Free?

Celiac disease involves the body’s immune response to derivatives of gluten a protein in wheat, rye, and barley. The prevalence of celiac disease in the United States is approximately 1 in 100 (1%). The disease occurs because the patient has the genetic make-up to react to gluten proteins causing an inflammatory reaction in the small […]

What You Need to Know about Vitamin D

Increasing evidence supports important roles for vitamin D in the prevention of many diseases including osteoporosis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression and immune disorders. The many roles of vitamin D in maintaining health and well-being are subjects of active and ongoing research, and recent discoveries have provided insight into the molecular mechanisms by which vitamin D […]

Unpacking the Magic of HCG

Unpacking the “Magic” of HCG: Is it the Low-Carbohydrate Very Low Calorie Diet? Having worked in a medically-supervised weight management program exclusively for over nine years as a registered dietitian, I sincerely empathize with men and women searching for an effective weight loss solution.  Frequently, during phone conversations with potential clients, these individuals share, often […]

Genetic Testing in Cancer

Most of the time cancer happens without a known underlying cause. But in some cases and in some families, a higher likelihood of cancer is passed down in genes from generation to generation.  When a gene for cancer is passed down, this increases an individual’s risk for cancer. Knowing your risk can help you make […]

Keeping a Watchful Eye on Aging Parents

As your parents enter their twilight years, you may feel as though you don’t want to meddle in their affairs. But when it comes to their health and safety, try not to stay in the dark. By paying attention to any warning signs, you’ll be in a better place to take steps that can help […]

Urinary Incontinence: “Just Live with It” is no Longer the Answer

When patients’ bladder control problems are to the point where they have to change their lifestyle or they have stopped doing things they like to do such as traveling or going to the gym, then it is time to consider alternatives such as medications, pelvic floor exercises, and dietary modifications. If those don’t work then […]

The Safety of Facelift Surgery in Older Adults

As we all know, the American population is aging. The number of Americans age 65 and older is expected to more than double by 2050, and the number age 85 and older may increase fivefold. While the elderly account for only 12% of the U.S. population, they undergo nearly 40% of all surgical procedures. As […]

Modern Approaches to the Bunion Deformity

The winter is almost upon us and with the cold icy weather we must pack away our sandals and flip-flops and dust off our shoes and boots. These snug fitting enclosed warm vessels are welcomed by those individuals trying to stay warm in the inclement Missouri weather and feared by others who are remiss at […]

Is it a Heart Attack?

More than a million Americans have heart attacks each year. Nearly half of them die.1 Why does this happen? In many cases, it’s because people don’t take action quickly enough – or at all. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked. If blood flow isn’t restored quickly […]

Healthy Feet for an Active Lifestyle

I have the pleasure of seeing many patients each week, and I think some of the more common questions that I am asked deal with “lumps and bumps” and changes in the appearance of nails and skin. I would like to discuss each of these situations in a little greater detail. Lumps and bumps can […]

Topics Your OB/Gyn Wants You to Know

No one likes to come to the gynecologist… in fact, we usually vie for last place on the popularity scale (along with dentists)! Many women struggle with body image, and going to the gynecologist forces women to expose even her most private parts. We get it. But you must remember, we see women of all […]

The Foot Facelift: Dermal Filler Injections for Fat Pad Atrophy

It is human nature to lament for what has since past and to revel in the memories of our life experiences and milestones. With maturity and experience come the unfortunate side effects of time. This, for many, has ignited a desire to recapture our youth. This desire is expressed in many different ways. For some […]

Learning the Basics about Vitamins

Vitamins are essentials – the substances your body needs to function normally. You can usually get the vitamins you need from a healthy, balanced diet. Add a “rainbow of color” to your diet and you increase your chances of getting what you need. But some people lack certain vitamins, so they need supplements. Ask your […]

Low Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening

JCMG Radiology in conjunction with JCMG Hematology/Oncology, Pulmonology and Dr. Allyson Walker (St. Mary’s Cardiothoracic Surgery) is pleased to offer a new state of the art technique in the battle against lung cancer: Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States for both men and […]

Breast Cancer Screening

Here are the facts: – Breast cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer death in women in the United States. – 1 in 8 women in the US will develop invasive breast cancer over their lifetime. – There are about 230,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer in women in the US per year, […]

Arthroscopy – a minimally invasive surgical approach in treating ankle pathology

Arthroscopy – a minimally invasive surgical approach in treating ankle pathology Persistent ankle pain can limit activity and disrupt the ability to comfortably carry out the most simple activities of daily living. The severity of symptoms can vary from individual to individual. Causes for generalized ankle pain and impingement can include 1) joint damage, 2) […]

Exercise Makes the Grade

Want your child to do better in school? Make sure exercise doesn’t get the short end of the stick. A review of 12 exercise studies recently underscored how important exercise is for the brain, not just the body. It found that children who regularly exercised tended to do better in school. These were a few […]

More than Cosmetic: Breast Reduction Improves Physical Health Problems

Women of all ages, both younger and older women, with overly large breasts that are out of proportion to their body can experience both physical and mental symptoms. They often have significant neck, shoulder, and back pain. They may also have difficulty exercising and leading an active lifestyle. Skin irritation beneath the breast fold is […]

Medication Storage

What’s the worst thing that can happen if you take a medication that is past its expiration date? The medicine will just be a little bit weak, right? Wrong. Although that’s true in most cases, some outdated medications can become toxic and actually make you sick. Knowing how to store medications, as well as when […]

Could You Have Sleep Apnea

Does your snoring raise the dead—or at least prompt a swift kick? Has your partner or spouse said that you gasp or snort, or make choking sounds while asleep? Are you finding yourself way too drowsy during the day, despite getting a “good night’s sleep”? These can be major signs of a common disorder called […]

Care Options for Great Toe Joint Arthritis

Degenerative arthritis of the first metatarsal phalangeal joint, also referred to as the great toe joint, can be a very painful and incapacitating condition. Arthritis of this joint can lead to limitation of walking and running based activities. Patients affected by this condition typically complain of stiffness, joint locking and pain. Patients may have to […]

Vaccines for Adults

Quick—do you know if you’re up to date on your vaccines? Or, do you think of vaccines as just kids’ stuff? Apparently lots of folks do, given that way too few adults receive the recommended vaccines. That puts them—and those who come into contact with them—at greater risk for vaccine-preventable diseases. Consider this: • In […]

Stress on the Heart

If managing stress is a challenge for you, take heed: More and more research is pointing to stress as a contributor to heart attack and other forms of heart disease. From natural disasters to the death of a sibling to the daily grind of modern-day life, stress can have a big impact on your heart. […]

EXERCISE…It isn’t just for kids!

We all know that exercise and physical activity are beneficial to our physical and mental well-being. Many people incorporate exercise into their regular routine, while some people are hoping to get started soon. You may be one of them. Exercise can be easy to do. All you need is self-motivation and comfortable clothes and shoes. […]

Arch and Shoe Supports

If you do a Google search for arch supports or shoe inserts you will be inundated with millions of results with reviews of product success by people you have never met. These reviews will more often than not give you a false hope of resolution of any problem you have ever had with your feet. […]

Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is a common condition, affecting almost half of Americans by age 50 and most by age 80.  Fortunately the majority of people never experience any symptoms.  Diverticuli are pouches on the colon that consist of the inner lining that has been pushed out through layers of muscle in the wall of the colon.  The […]

Pain Management

Patients are all familiar with being asked: “On a scale of 1 to 10, what is your pain?” Over the last 20 years, treatment of pain has been a focus for health care institutions and health care providers.  Unfortunately, there is much that health care providers do not know or understand about pain.  Patients and […]

Sounds of the Season

The ringing of bells, the rustling of wrapping paper, the tearing of envelopes containing Christmas cards, children’s laughter, the gathering of family & friends and conversation around the table.  These are just a few sounds of the season that many embrace this time of year.  However, for others – the hearing impaired – it can […]