CENTRALIA – SSM Health Medical Group in Southern Illinois continues to expand its weight management services by adding another provider to its medical staff.

Cris Myers, APRN-DNP, earned an Associate’s Degree in Nursing from Kaskaskia College in Centralia. She then obtained a Master of Science in Nursing, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and a certificate as an Adult Geriatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, all from the University of Southern Indiana in Evansville. Cris’ clinical rotations included primary care, cardiovascular care, pulmonary/critical care, nephrology, and emergency care.

Cris has spent 28 years as a registered nurse, specializing in cardiology for the last 6 years, during which she has witnessed the strong connection between cardiovascular disease and obesity. This experience motivated her to transition her focus to weight management services, enabling her to help patients reduce their risk of chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Her commitment to patient care inspired her to become an instructor at Kaskaskia College, Chamberlain College of Nursing, and Maryville University, providing nursing students with a comprehensive understanding of the medical field. During her time teaching Cris has earned the Nurse Educator Fellowship Award from the Illinois Board of Higher Education, Ambassador for the National League for Nursing, and Certificate of Completion from Kaskaskia College Leadership Institute. She also served on the NLNAC Preparation Committee, Nursing Advisory Panel, and the Associate Degree Nursing Admissions Committee.

“Attention to detail and patient advocacy are essential. I provide personalized care based on current research and best practices, connecting patients with the appropriate specialists and health services,” said Cris.

Cris offers weight management health care for patients 18 years or older, including:

• General surgery consultations.
• Pre-operative and post-operative bariatric surgery check-ups.
• Medically managed weight loss.

Cris’s practice is part of SSM Health Medical Group, located at 432 N. Pleasant Ave. in Centralia, IL, and 5 Good Samaritan Way in Mount Vernon, IL. Her clinic hours are Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Cris Myers, APRN-DNP, please call 618-436-8300 (Centralia) or 618-899-1264 (Mt. Vernon).