Rukayatu Ibrahim, MD - Springfield Clinic Pediatric & Adolescent Center

Dr. Bhandari grew up in Illinois, attending the University of Chicago for undergraduate college, New York University School of Medicine for medical school and Loyola University Medical Center for pediatric residency. Over the years, she has practiced pediatrics in Brooklyn, N.Y., and has been an urgent care pediatrician with the Children's Hospital Colorado in Denver.Dr. Bhandari believes every child has the right to strive for and reach their greatest potential. She aims to provide a medical home and work with parents and families to overcome illness and any other issues as a team. She will advocate for every child to obtain the resources and specialty care they need to thrive. Dr. Bhandari will work with you to monitor your child's growth and development. She aims to empower parents, providing education and clear instructions. With two young children of her own, she understands the challenges of schooling and parenting today's young generation.Top 1% Patient ExperienceThis provider ranks in the top 1% nationally in patient experience, based on scores from the "Care Provider Overall" question on surveys completed with Press Ganey.

John Belz, MD, FAAP, provides care with the Springfield Clinic's Pediatrics Department and sees patients at Springfield Clinic Pediatrics.Dr. Belz earned his medical degree from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield. He completed his pediatrics residency at the University of Iowa in Iowa City and is board certified in Pediatrics from American Board of Pediatrics.Dr. Belz was drawn to medicine after witnessing the impact of a challenging diagnosis within his family. He found his calling in pediatrics, saying, "I love working with kids. There hasn't been a day so far in my time in pediatrics that a child hasn't put a smile on my face. Being around kids is such a joyful experience."Born and raised in Springfield, Dr. Belz is excited to return and practice in his hometown. "I'm coming back to the area to practice here for the rest of my life," he says. "As a pediatrician, I value the long-term relationships I can build with families—from newborns through college—and I’m committed to being here for the long haul. This is my home."In his free time, Dr. Belz enjoys playing video games and spending time with friends and family.

Christopher Ehrlich has been a pediatrician with Springfield Clinic since 2004. He grew up in central Illinois, attending the University of Illinois for undergraduate school and Southern Illinois University for medical school and residency. He has two young children who he adores and thanks for helping him to become an even better, more well-rounded pediatrician. Dr. Ehrlich has a couple of philosophies, which are the pillars of his practice: First, he believes that one of the most critical aspects of the doctor-parent-patient relationship is good communication. He recognizes the need to listen attentively to the parent/patient. Furthermore, he wants the parent/patient to walk away from each clinic visit with clarity--knowing the diagnosis, the treatment plan and what to expect over the coming days. Second, Dr. Ehrlich emphasizes that treatment should be focused on doing what is best for the child. He is a firm believer in the science behind immunizations and the data demonstrating their effectiveness. On that note, he also believes that prescription medications, such as antibiotics and ADHD medications, are used too often. He believes in balancing the tools within a healthy human body to fight off diseases with the use of prescription medications only when they are necessary.Top 1% Patient ExperienceThis provider ranks in the top 1% nationally in patient experience, based on scores from the "Care Provider Overall" question on surveys completed with Press Ganey.