Same Day Care

Hallie J. Kretsinger, MD, graduated from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 2015 after earning two bachelor’s degrees -- in Germanic languages and literatures and in philosophy-neuroscience-psychology -- with honors in 2011 from Washington University in St. Louis. Dr. Kretsinger is a member of the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians and completed her internal medicine residency at St. Louis University in 2018. She is board certified in Internal Medicine.

Lorraine Nichols, DO received her bachelor’s degree from Northeast Missouri State University, now known as Truman State University, in Kirksville, MO and earned her medical degree from the University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kansas City.
Dr. Nichols’ philosophy of care is really treating her patients as a whole. She wants to listen to her patients to hear what is wrong and together find the best solution for their care. Dr. Nichols wants her patients to feel empowered in her health.
She is a board certified in family medicine and is an active member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Medical Association. In her free time, Dr. Nichols enjoys traveling with her husband and kids, along with camping, hiking, skiing, reading and doing yoga.

Heather Yates earned her undergraduate degree in Human Biology from the University of Kansas, and her Master of Health Sciences degree in Physician assistant studies from Duke University. Heather is certified by the National Certification on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). 

Science and learning pulled Heather Yates to medicine more than 30 years ago, and it’s kept her captivated every day since. 

“I look forward to learning more all the time. You can see thousands of sore throats, but there may be something a bit different about this particular diagnosis,” she said. “There’s something that you can continually learn from, and that keeps me going.” 

Heather was also intrigued by the idea of practicing medicine in a team setting, and the challenge of primary care. But she really enjoys the people she meets along the journey.  

“There’s a saying in medicine that if you listen long enough, the patient will tell you what’s wrong. I want to hear from you. Write it down, bring in a list of what’s wrong, your needs, and we’ll get started,” she said. “I’ve learned so much from patients over the years, and it’s an honor to be able to be part of that journey with people.” 

”I really enjoy being a bridge for my patients, helping them find the right path toward better health and supporting them every step of the way.”
Maria Talamantes is a physician assistant with LMH Health Primary Care. It’s important to Maria to get to know her patients and what matters most to them. It allows her to provide the best care possible.  
“You can be completely open with me. I’m here to help and support you, not to judge. I’ll advocate for you in every way possible.”
Maria earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Kansas and her master’s degree in physician assistant studies from Drexel University. She is bilingual in English and Spanish.

Kristy Stone-Garcia earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from New Mexico Highlands University and her master’s degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She is a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

Alex Winkler, MD, earned his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Kansas and his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine. He is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Medical Association.
“I have always wanted to be in a position where I could help people meet their healthcare goals. I chose family medicine because of the long-term relationships you make with your patients and the variety of care I can provide.”
Winkler began his medical career in 2015 as a medical assistant and record clerk at LMH Primary Care – 6th and Maine, formerly known as Reed Medical Group, while pursuing his undergraduate degree.
During his training in Marysville, Kansas, Winkler strengthened his interested in providing care in a rural setting. He has received additional training for Mental Health and Addiction medicine. His primary focus is on providing his patients with collaborative care and support.
“The thing I love most about being a physician is watching my patients grow and change. It’s rewarding to be able to support them as they set goals and reach them. I am excited to be back in Kansas and in a community such as Tonganoxie, similar to the small town I grew up in.”

Jeanette Miller, FPN-BC, received her undergraduate degree at Washburn University in Topeka and her doctorate in nursing practice at the University of Kansas School of Nursing in Kansas City. Miller is a family nurse practitioner and is an active member of the Kansas Advance Practice Nurses Association, American Nurses Association and the Kansas Nurses Association.
“The enjoyment that I get from being a nurse practitioner is from the interactions with my patients on a day-to-day basis.”
Miller enjoys finding out about her patients, learning about them and growing with them. Before joining LMH Health Primary Care - South Iowa Street, Miller worked at an Urgent Care center in Topeka. Jeanette also worked in Topeka and Onaga, Kansas as a registered nurse.

Matthew Carey, MD, is a psychiatrist with the Internal Medicine Group at LMH Health. He was an internal medicine and psychiatry assistant professor at the University of Kansas School of Medicine and is board certified in internal medicine and psychiatry.

Barbara Turner earned her undergraduate degree in nursing from Baker University. She earned a master’s in nursing from the University of Kansas School of Nursing and is a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

Barbara served in the United States Air Force from 2000 to 2004. She’s returning to LMH Health, having previously worked at LMH as a registered nurse in pediatrics and in labor and delivery.

Amy Baker, APRN, received her undergraduate degree and master's in nursing degree from Washburn University. Baker served as a nurse in the LMH Health emergency department from 2007-2016 and now works with LMH Health Primary Care - South Iowa Street.

From a pretty young age, Jen Schweda knew that she wanted to be a nurse. It’s a thread that runs throughout her family.  
“My mom is a nurse and I have a number of family members who are nurses, too. I’ve always known that this is something I was going to do.” 
Jen earned her undergraduate nursing degree at the University of Kansas. She was a new nurse when she took the opportunity to work in labor and delivery at LMH Health, but it wasn’t her first brush with the hospital. 
“I grew up in Lawrence and my mom had worked for LMH, so I was familiar with it. LMH has always been part of the community, and I knew it was a great place to work.” 
After spending time working in labor and delivery, postpartum care and the neonatal nursery at LMH, it was time for a change. Jen wanted to have more impact, so she returned to the University of Kansas to earn her master’s degree and become a family medicine nurse practitioner.  
“Family medicine provides variety, and each day is different. I really enjoy being in a small community like Baldwin City and getting to bond with my patients. I love being able to take care of a grandparent, their children, and their grandchildren.” 
Jen lived in Baldwin City for a little over 20 years and knows that working in the community is special. She tries to make her patients feel welcome and figure out what she can do to help and understand what they want to achieve at the visit and help them achieve their goals. 
"We deliver personalized care and are small enough that we know our patients well. We’ve developed relationships with our patients and they’re familiar with us. It makes it easier to talk with someone they recognize and who understands their family history.” 

Matthew J. Bihlmaier, DO, earned his medical degree from the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences in Kansas City, Missouri. He completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Missouri-Kansas City in Internal Medicine and a geriatric fellowship at Truman Lakewood Hospital in Lee Summit, Missouri. Bihlmaier is board-certified in internal medicine.

Andra Walker, PA-C, earned her undergraduate degree from Oklahoma State University and graduated from Missouri State University with a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies.
 “I enjoy interacting with patients, being able to see the changes that affect their lives and how they feel, and working with whole families.”
Walker first became part of LMH Health as a volunteer in the LMH Health Cancer Center. She is also member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants.
“I have had a focus in family medicine from pediatrics to geriatrics. I also have a lot of experience in caring for type-2 diabetes.”

Jennifer Bihlmaier, DO, earned her medical degree from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences in Kansas City, Missouri. She completed her family medicine residency at Truman Lakewood Hospital. Dr. Bihlmaier is board certified in Family Medicine.
Dr. Bihlmaier wants her patients to know that she is honored to be their physician and feels honored that her patients trust her with their care. She is excited for patients to experience the wide variety of services that LMH Health has to offer with a community hospital feel. In her free time, Dr. Bihlmaier enjoys doing yoga and spending time outdoors and traveling with her husband and children.

Megan Amyx joined Internal Medicine Group in 2017.  She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing and her master's degree in nursing, at Washburn University in Topeka.   Earlier in her career, she was an emergency room nurse for Lawrence Memorial Hospital. 

April Sprague, APRN, earned her undergraduate degree from MidAmerica Nazarene University and graduated from the University of Saint Mary with a Master of Science in Nursing.
“I chose to become a family nurse practitioner because I enjoy caring for others. Being an APRN allows me help my patients work toward their health goals, celebrate their successes and provide support when they need it most.”
Sprague began her career as a licensed practical nurse caring for adults with intellectual disabilities. She previously worked at LMH Health in the ICU and Population Health before transitioning to become an LMH Health APRN.
“I chose to be a family nurse practitioner because of my strong background in nursing which is rooted in compassionate care. I enjoy making connections with individuals from all walks of life.”

Dr. Clair is board certified in family medicine and obesity medicine. She earned her medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and completed her family practice residency at Trinity Lutheran Hospital in Kansas City. For the past two decades, she has worked as a family medicine physician in the Topeka, Lawrence and Kansas City areas.

Melissa Ferguson, APRN, received her undergraduate nursing degree from Washburn University in Topeka, KS and her graduate degree from the University of Kansas. She previously worked at LMH Health and is excited to be back and provide holistic care to her patients at LMH Health Primary Care - South Iowa Street.

Dr. Bloom is board certified in family medicine. She earned her medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and completed a residency in Family Medicine at St. Joseph Hospital in Denver, Colorado.

International Experience: 

Pediatric Clinical Elective
Mnazi Mmoja Hospital, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Feb 2013

Child Family Health International
Comparative Urban and Rural Health, Quito, Ecuador
July 2009

Universidad de las Americas
Spanish Language & Literature, Puebla, Mexico
June 2006

Jennifer Strickland, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, joined the LMH Health team in 2021. She received her undergraduate degrees in Nursing and Spanish from the University of Missouri at Kansas City and earned her doctorate from the University of Kansas Medical Center. She is fluent in Spanish and has experience in Family Practice and Pediatrics. Strickland is excited to practice in the community where she lives.

Caring for the residents of McLouth is important to nurse practitioner Melissa Norris. It’s in the area she’s proud to call home.
“I’m excited to work in McLouth because I live in a small town nearby,” she said. “I enjoy getting to create a bond with my patients, getting to know them and them getting to know me. That allows me to help them be healthier and gain the skills and knowledge to do that.”
Norris graduated from Wichita State University with her undergraduate degree in nursing and from Maryville University with her master of science in nursing.
She worked at Stormont Vail in the pediatric intensive care unit and pediatric behavioral health, then as a director of nursing at F.W. Huston Medical Center before joining LMH Health. Norris also continues to work alongside the team at the LMH Wound Healing Center. Her passion lies in providing primary care for patients at all ages and stages of life.
“I grew up in a small town and we only had a community hospital, so the doctors and nurses we saw there were within our community,” she said. “I’m excited to be able to offer services in McLouth so patients don’t have to drive into the city or travel far away to get care. I have the support of LMH Health, its providers and resources at my fingertips.” 

When you step into LMH Health Primary Care – Tonganoxie and meet Becki Steffey, you’ll feel right at home.
“I want to get to know you as a unique person, not just your medical background. Our team is a tight knit group that feels like a family,” she said. We strive to treat every patient like they’re our own family member.”
Becki Steffey, APRN, earned her bachelors degree in nursing from Missouri Western State University and a master’s degree in nursing from Rockhurst University. She is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners as a family nurse practitioner.
“I love taking care of women’s health. And I love kiddos, but I really love those sick or acute visits. It’s like putting a puzzle together, gathering all the pieces and putting together a plan to get you back to feeling your best,” she said.
Becki has worked at LMH Health since 2009, beginning as a CNA and continuing her career as an LPN, RN, and a nurse practitioner. She loves the collaboration she experiences with colleagues in primary care and throughout the health system.
“LMH Health is unique because it’s a small community hospital with a lot of the resources and specialties that the bigger health systems have. It still feels like small town care, but with all the benefits of a big system.”

Jenny earned her undergraduate degree and her master’s from the University of Kansas. She is a Family Nurse Practitioner and a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the Association of Pulmonary Advanced Practice Providers, and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. Jenny also served as a combat medic in the Army Reserves from 2003 to 2011.
 

Benjamin Smith, D.O., earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Kansas in exercise physiology. He later earned a master’s degree in bioethics and a doctor of osteopathic medicine degree, both from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. He completed a residency in internal medicine via the University of Kentucky at the Medical Center at Bowling Green. He is a member of the American College of Osteopathic Internists and the American Medical Association.
Dr. Smith said it is often hard to believe this is his job, he loves what he does and the relationships he builds with patients. There is much more he enjoys about being a doctor, but serving the Lawrence community and growing with his patients is definitely at the top. In his free time, Dr. Smith enjoys staying active with regular exercise, watching the Jayhawks and Kansas City sports teams, being outdoors and exploring new places around the world and locally with family and friends.

Jessica Shippee earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Kansas, followed by bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from Baker University. She earned her doctorate in nursing practice from Pittsburg State University. Jessica is also an assistant professor at Baker University.

Pamela Huerter, MD, earned her bachelors from the University of Kansas and her medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Kansas City. She is an active member of the American Academy of Family Practice and the American Board of Family Medicine.
Dr. Huerter wants her patients to know she is very committed to the Lawrence community and caring for her patients and the community as a whole. In her free time, Dr. Huerter enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.

Dr. Cramer, was born and raised in northeast Kansas.  She earned her medical degree in 2006 from the University of Kansas School of Medicine, where she won numerous awards for excellence and graduated at the top of her class.   In 2009 Dr. Cramer completed her residency at Salina's Smokey Hill Family Medicine Residency Program and earned her board certification in family medicine.  

Dr. Hawkins came to Eudora in 2015 from Marysville, where he practiced at Community Memorial Healthcare/ Marysville Clinic. He received his bachelor’s degree in cellular biology at the University of Kansas and earned his medical degree in 2008 at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Wichita. He completed the Smoky Hill Family Medicine Residency Program in 2011. Dr. Hawkins is board certified in family medicine. 

Patricia “Polly” Sheridan-Young, PA-C, earned her undergraduate degree from William Penn University in Oskoloosa, Iowa, and her master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Butler University in Indianapolis. She relates best to her patients through her ability to draw from personal experiences. Sheridan-Young knows how intimidating it can be to go to the doctor's office or talk about certain conditions and she understands where her patients are coming from. She wants to give her patients information and understanding of their conditions in a direct way.
Sheridan-Young is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the Kansas Association of Physician Assistants, the American Academy of Sports Medicine and Women Leaders in College Sports.

Caitlin Elmore, MD, earned her undergraduate degree from Washburn University in Topeka and her doctorate from Ross University School of Medicine in Portsmouth, Dominica. She completed her residency at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences–West in Fort Smith, AR, specializing in family medicine. Dr. Elmore is an active member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Medical Association. 
“I want to work with my patients to provide health education and get to know them and their families during all stages of life.” 
Dr. Elmore is married with three children and enjoys spending time with family and friends outside of work. 

Kayla Donahue, PA, earned her undergraduate degree in kinesiology from Kansas State University and a master’s in physician assistant studies from Creighton University. 

Savannah Ericksen, DO, earned her undergraduate degree in Nutrition Science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Medicine. She is a member of the Missouri Army National Guard and former Army Combat Flight Medic. 
“I knew that I wanted a career that would let me help people and challenge me to continue to learn. Family medicine allows me to focus on learning how to meet each of my patient’s unique needs.” 
One of Doctor Ericksen’s favorite parts about being a physician is being able to teach about healthcare. She takes pride in her patients being able to trust her to guide them through their healthcare journey. 
“I have a special focus on diabetes. My background in nutrition has helped me better understand blood sugar and how medicine, diet and exercise can change it.” 

Dr. Penn has been with Internal Medicine Group since 1996.  He is board certified in infectious disease and internal medicine.  He treats patients in all areas of internal medicine with an emphasis on infectious diseases.  He received his medical degree from University of Kansas School of Medicine before completing his residency and fellowship training at University of Kansas Medical Center.

Dr. Hughes is board certified in family practice.  He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Kansas and his medical degree at the University of Kansas Medical Center.  He completed his residency in family medicine at Via-Christi-St. Joseph Family Practice in Wichita.

Stacey Dines joined Eudora Family Care in 2018. She earned a bachelor of science degree in nursing from the University of Kansas in 1998, and worked as a registered nurse for two years. She then completed her master of science in nursing at the University of Kansas in 2002, graduating with honors. Stacey received her national certification through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners in 2014. Before joining Eudora Family Care, she worked for four years in women’s health and for 12 years in family medicine.

Curtis Wolfe, MD, earned his undergraduate degree in biochemistry from Kansas State University and his medical degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas School of Medicine. He is a member of the Kansas Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Family Physicians and a member of the Honor Flight Medical Crew for Wamego High School.                                             
 “I chose to become a physician because I wanted to work with people to help make them the healthiest they can be. I enjoy helping people of all ages, from infant immunizations to helping individuals to stay at home as they age.”
Wolfe began his career working in primary care in a rural health clinic, allowing him to care for a wide range of ages and needs. He is comfortable having difficult conversations with his patients including topics like palliative and hospice care. He also has special interests in allergies, asthma and sports medicine. Dr. Wolfe previously served as the Medical Director of Sports Medicine for USD 320.
“I want my patients to know that I have been in family medicine for more than 20 years. I have the heart to help people be healthy and want to care for them in a compassionate way just like they were a family member.”

Dr. Stuever has been with Internal Medicine Groups since 1993.  He is a board-certified internist and treats patients in all areas of internal medicine.  He earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine, and he completed his residency and fellowship training as Internal Medicine Chief Resident at the University of Kansas Medical Center. 

Stephanie Pryor can pinpoint the time she knew that she wanted to work in healthcare. It happened following her father’s colon cancer diagnosis when he was just 30.
“I spent lots of time with my father in the hospital during his treatments and was astounded by the compassion the nursing staff and providers showed both of us. They let me watch things, explained different things and let me be ask questions and curious and that made it less scary for me. It really changed my outlook on healthcare.”
Stephanie earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Baker University. She worked in areas including critical care before earning a Doctor of Nursing degree from the University of Kansas.
“I love being a nurse practitioner and seeing my patients through their care. Whether it’s working with patients who have a cold or helping them to manage chronic illnesses like hypertension, I want to see the whole picture – not just a snapshot.”
Being approachable is important to Stephanie. She wants her patients to know she’s always ready to listen, and to feel comfortable enough that they can discuss any problem. It’s also important to know that when you have a problem, Stephanie leaves no stone unturned.
“Everything is solvable, even if there’s not a clear solution. I want you to know that you can come talk with me, and we’ll work together to find the answers.”

Darlene Bryant earned her undergraduate degree in nursing from the Mississippi University for Women and her master’s in nursing from South University. She is a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
“I love working in primary care because I’m able to address problems and be part of a team to see patients through their care and treatment. Whether that involves medication or lifestyle changes, we work together to set a goal and achieve it.”
Darlene has worked in healthcare for many years, working in primary care, pain management and endoscopy. She earned her undergraduate degree in nursing from the Mississippi University for Women and her master’s in nursing from South University. Darlene is a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
“LMH Health is a great community hospital and the staff is phenomenal. You can feel really good with the care you get at our clinic. If you receive a referral, it’ll with someone we know and trust.”

Kimberly Todd, PA-C is a family practice provider at Family Medicine of Tonganoxie. She earned her master's degree in physician assistant studies from Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska, in 2014. Before joining the McLouth and Tonganoxie teams, she worked in family practice and in orthopedics at OrthoKansas. Kimberly is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

Dr. Marcellino is board certified in family practice. He received his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 2005. He completed an internship at Mayo Clinic - Arizona followed by  residency in family medicine at Via Christi in Wichita.

Beth Reynolds, APRN, a Lawrence native, earned her bachelor’s and master’s degree from Washburn University in Topeka, KS. She is an active member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Reynolds is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner.
Reynolds wants her patients to know that she is easy to talk to. As her patient, no questions or comment is too crazy. She will work to find the best solution to your problem and work with you on your care journey.
In her free time, she enjoys being with her husband, kids and two dogs. Beth is active, likes outdoor activities and is an avid runner who enjoys participating in local races.

Kristen Allen, PA-C, received her undergraduate degree from Bucknell University and her masters in physician assistant studies from Chatham University. Allen is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Kansas Associations of Physician Assistants.

“I always knew I wanted a career that would allow me to help people. Being a physician assistant allows me to take care of the whole person while building a relationship with the patient.”

Allen has worked with the hospitalist group at LMH Health since 2014. She has also worked on a PRN basis in LMH Health’s primary care clinics.

“I specialize in patients’ recovery as they transition from a complex hospital stay back into their daily life.”

One of Allen’s favorite aspects of her job is being able to work with her patients to improve their quality of life.

“I want my patients to know that I am here to listen. It’s important to me that I understand what is bothering them and what they are looking for.”

In her free time, Allen enjoys cooking and trying new foods, and traveling with her family.

Walter Ingram, MD, earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas Medical Center in 2003 and completed his residency at Keesler Air Force Base Internal Medicine and Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. In 2003, Dr. Ingram was awarded the Osler medal from the American Association for the History of Medicine. He is board-certified in internal medicine and is a member of the American College of Physicians.

Dr. Stamper, who specializes in family medicine, joined Eudora Family Care in 2010. She graduated from Kansas State University and earned her medical degree at Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2007. She completed her internship and residency at the Medical College of Georgia. Dr. Stamper is a member of the American Osteopathic Association and is board certified in family medicine.

Larisa Kimuri, MD, received her undergraduate degree from the University of Kansas and earned her medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Kansas City. Dr. Kimuri is board certified in family medicine and is an active member of the Kansas Medical Society. 
Dr. Kimuri wants her patients to know that she is there for them when they are ill, but also hopes to see them regularly when they are well.  She hopes to foster a partnership for good health with her patients through prevention practices and screening exams. "The best way to fight illness is to prevent it in the first place." 
Though Dr. Kimuri enjoys being in the office with her patients and her colleagues, in her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, travel, sewing and reading. 

Dr. Farrell earned his medical degree from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts. He completed his internal medicine residency at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, and served as medical officer at Fort Riley, Kansas, which was his introduction to our fine state. After fulfilling his active-duty obligation he practiced in Topeka, and then practiced for eight years in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. He joined the Reed practice in 2007.