Well Within Reach with Riverside Healthcare

This episode explains when immediate care is the right choice and how it can save you time and money compared with an ER visit. Hosts walk you through common scenarios and why timely access to care matters for your health. Guests: Akash Rana, Director of Immediate Care and Workforce Health, and Cheryl Hanson, Nurse Practitioner with Immediate Care. They discuss walk-in clinic services, X-ray on si...

This episode breaks down what prediabetes is, how it differs from type 2 diabetes, and why early detection and lifestyle change matter for preventing long-term complications. Dr. Santhosh Bhatt, DO, board certified in internal medicine, explains tests, risk factors, and practical steps you can take. You’ll hear clear guidance on A1C and fasting glucose testing, insulin resistance, Mediterranean-st...

This episode explains why regular lab work is a cornerstone of preventive care and how simple tests can spot problems long before symptoms appear. Understanding routine lab work helps you protect your long-term health and avoid surprises. Guest: Dr. Mary Ann Kelly, primary care provider at the Riverside Frankfort Campus, walks through common tests and what they reveal. You’ll hear practical guidan...

Camille Joly, Licensed Speech Therapist at Riverside Healthcare, explains gender-affirming voice therapy for LGBTQ+ patients, what treatment looks like, and how to get started.

In this episode Dr. Patrick Moore, MD (oncologist and hematologist, Riverside Cancer Institute) explains the difference between oncology and hematology, what common conditions we treat, and why early detection matters. Learn how cancer screening, blood tests (CBC), and routine primary care visits can catch problems early so treatment — from surgery to chemotherapy and targeted therapy — can be mos...

Practical guidance for families noticing early signs—missed medications, difficulty with meals, or increased falls—and how to start the conversation with care and empathy.

This episode explains why Riverside Healthcare’s fourth ANCC Magnet designation matters to patients — it’s about measurable improvements in patient safety, outcomes, and coordinated care across the community. Guest Erika Ohlendorf, Director of Nursing and Magnet Program Director, walks through exemplars like infection prevention and interdisciplinary collaboration that directly impact patient expe...

Ericka shares her personal journey from repeated ER visits to diagnosis and coordinated multidisciplinary care at Riverside Cancer Institute. A hopeful, honest account of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, brachytherapy, and ongoing immunotherapy — and the staff, family, and community supports that made the difference.

In this episode Leanne Bishop, MSN, APRN, CNM, walks through real-world strategies to manage hot flashes, brain fog, insomnia, and mood changes—symptoms that frequently disrupt work and daily life. If you’re searching for practical menopause care, menopause treatment options, hormone therapy guidance, sleep and menopause advice, or ways to reduce hot flashes and brain fog, this conversation offers...

In this episode Ashley Moritz, Physician Recruitment Manager at Riverside Healthcare, walks through the end-to-end physician recruitment and onboarding process and explains why community hospitals can compete for top talent. Learn about physician recruitment, site visits, credentialing, physician hiring, physician retention, and the importance of cultural fit in building a thriving medical staff....

In this episode, we explore the vital role primary care providers, like Miranda Cervinskas, FNP-C, play in mental health support. Learn how to bring up mental health concerns with your PCP and the tools they use for screenings and treatments. Understanding this connection can empower you to seek the help you need. Don't hesitate—your mental wellness matters!

Discover critical digestive health red flags in this informative podcast episode. Liz Deck, FNP-BC, provides detailed explanations about symptoms like bloating, constipation, and heartburn that shouldn't be overlooked. Make sure you're in tune with your body’s signals!  Learn more about Liz Deck, FNP-BC, BC-ADM, CDCES, DNP  

Understanding autism can be overwhelming for parents. Join us as we break down the critical signs to recognize in children and how these indicators can lead to early diagnosis. Learn from Kelsey Brun as she discusses behavioral indicators such as social isolation and communication challenges.

In this episode, we delve into the significance of Riverside's Workforce Health program with Akash Rana, who oversees its operations. Discover how occupational health services can keep your employees healthy, ensure compliance with workplace safety, and foster a productive work environment. Whether you're an employer or an employee, understanding these services can directly impact workplace wellne...

In this episode, clinical dietitian Brittany Champney dispels the myth that carbs are bad for you. Discover the essential role carbohydrates play in brain function and overall health, along with practical tips on portion sizes and balanced eating. Learn how to tailor your diet to your unique needs and stop comparing your food journey to others. Tune in and empower yourself with the truth about nut...

Qiana Goosby, Licensed Physical Therapist, and Taylor Coblentz, Licensed Occupational Therapist, join us to discuss how Riverside's Pediatric Therapy services help patients from birth to age 21 adapt to and overcome a variety of challenges.

Dr. Israr Ul Haq, Neurologist and Clinical Neurophysiologist at the Riverside Brain and Spine Institute, joins us to discuss signs and symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis and how neurologists diagnose and treat the condition.  Learn more about Israr Ul Haq, MD  

In this episode, we delve into practical strategies to fight fatigue and improve sleep quality. Kathleen Gallagher, Manager of Pulmonology and the Riverside Sleep Center, shares her expert advice on actionable steps you can take to fall asleep faster, fight daytime sleepiness, and increase your sleep duration. Learn how small changes like better hydration, adjusting nutrition to get more natural m...

In this episode, we delve into the vital role of infusion services in patient care at Riverside Healthcare, featuring Lindsay Hoekstra, RN, MSN, Director of Infusion Services. Understand the various conditions treatable with infusion therapy and how this service enhances patient comfort. Tune in to discover how Riverside is redefining care with specialized outpatient and home infusion options. Lea...

In this informative episode of the Well Within Reach podcast, Helen Dandurand speaks with lactation consultant Bonnie Occhiuzzo, RN, BSN, CLC about essential breastfeeding basics. Discover key insights on breastfeeding techniques, the differences between colostrum and mature milk, and how to recognize if your baby is getting enough milk. Understanding these fundamentals is crucial for new parents...

This episode features Holly Ward-Collins, LPN and site supervisor at Riverside Women's Health, guiding you through the essential steps to take once you find out you're expecting. Learn about scheduling your first prenatal appointment, what information you need, and tips to prepare for your journey into motherhood. Whether you’re excited or anxious, this episode provides the clarity you need. Don't...

Dr. Stonewall McCuiston, Riverside Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, joins us to discuss chronic health disparities and medical mistrust in the Black community, and what Riverside is doing to address these issues.  Learn more about Stonewall McCuiston, MD  

Join Taylor Ledden McMaster and industry experts Mary Smith and Sadiya Faiza as they dive into healthcare positions requiring two years of training or less. You'll learn about rewarding roles like CNAs, phlebotomists, and radiology techs, and the critical skills that make these positions essential. This episode highlights the importance of every role in the healthcare system and offers insights fo...

Dr. Rachel Shell, Riverside Endocrinologist, and Nicole Potts, Registered Dietitian, join us to discuss the Weigh to Healthy Living program, and how it can help participants develop and maintain healthy habits to reach weight management and wellness goals.  Learn more about Rachel Shell, MD  

In this episode, Liz Unruh is joined by Kelly Eagan, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, the lead clinical pharmacist at Riverside's Cardiology Pharmacotherapy Clinic (CPC). Discover how clinical pharmacists play a crucial role in patient care management, help manage chronic conditions, and optimize medication therapy to ensure best outcomes for patients. Tune in to understand the unique value they bring...