How do I make an appointment?

Initial visits must often be scheduled several weeks in advance, because they usually last about an hour. Therefore, it is better to establish care before you have an acute illness.

For urgent problems, we can often schedule you in the same day.

For less urgent problems, you can usually get in within a few days.

For more serious problems, you may be sent to the emergency room, usually to Northwest Hospital or Children's Hospital.

For life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 first.

If you are seen regularly for diabetes, pain management or other chronic problems:

Please schedule your next appointment as you leave the office.

What if my provider is not available?

Dr. Starkebaum and Dr. Graunke can see patients for Leslie Vietmeier, and she can see patients for them.

What if I need to cancel an appointment, or will be late?

Please let us know about cancellations promptly, ideally 24 hours ahead.

Otherwise, there may be a $35 charge.

You can leave a message for us after hours.

If you are running late, call to let us know. We may need to reschedule.

Special for Expectant Parents:

If you are looking for a pediatrician , call to schedule a free "Meet and Greet" visit with Dr. Graunke, to get acquainted with her and the office before your baby is born.

Is there a co-payment?

Check on the back of your insurance card.

Please bring your insurance card or DSHS coupon every time.

We accept cash, checks, Visa and Master cards for your co-payments

We collect the co-payment when you check in.

What should I always bring to an appointment?

A list of your concerns. But we may not be able to address all of them at each visit. Note when a problem started, what made it better or worse, and what did or didn't work.

Your current med list: a complete list of everything you are actually taking now. Ideally, you should keep this list in your wallet. Your safe care depends on this! It may help to bring in the actual prescription bottles. Include creams, eye drops, supplements, non-prescription, and alternative meds. Include meds taken "as needed," and those prescribed by other doctors. Tell us about any you have recently discontinued or skipped. Please check each visit to make sure our list is correct.

Allergies and any meds that have disagreed with you or haven't worked.

A friend (maybe): If your care is complex, it can sometimes help a lot to bring someone else with you, to help you tell us what has been happening, to listen, ask questions, take notes, help you remember what was said, keep track of the treatment plan, and report back to us if needed. Please tell us if there is anyone with whom you would authorize us to discuss your medical care.

Any forms that need to be filled out.

Your insurance card (and co-pay) or medical coupon. Please check to make sure it is current, and we are on your plan.

What should I not bring?

Please put your cell phone on hold while we are trying to take care of you.

If you have questions that aren't answered here, please Contact Us.