Saint Francis Healthcare System welcomes new physician assistant to Cape Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — Saint Francis Healthcare System has announced the addition of Courtney Bohnert, a certified physician assistant and registered dietitian, to Cape Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine.

Bohnert will provide care for patients with acute and chronic pulmonary diseases, as well as nutritional support for those experiencing breathing difficulties.

She graduated from Southern Illinois University’s physician assistant program in Carbondale in 2026 and is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

Bohnert said her goal is to help patients manage respiratory conditions while addressing their nutritional needs.

“Difficulty breathing can be scary and sometimes life-threatening,” Bohnert said. “Many times, patients have trouble eating when breathing is of concern. My additional background as a registered dietitian allows me to ensure patients are getting adequate nutrition when experiencing a respiratory exacerbation.”

Cape Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine provides specialized care for patients experiencing breathing and sleep-related conditions.

The practice offers treatment for asthma, chronic cough, cystic fibrosis and other pulmonary conditions.

Services also include sleep disorder evaluations, sleep studies, respiratory therapy and general pulmonary care.

Providers work alongside respiratory therapists and sleep technologists to develop treatment plans for patients.

Saint Francis Healthcare System is anchored by Saint Francis Medical Center, a 306-bed hospital in Cape Girardeau. The health system employs nearly 3,000 people and includes more than 250 providers serving 10 communities throughout the region.