Dr. Holley Bermel, DO – Family Physician | Norwalk, IA

To confirm if Dr. Holley Bermel is currently accepting new patients, please contact (515) 285-3200.

Dr. Holley Bermel, DO is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Norwalk, IA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Iowa Board of Medicine and practices under the Iowa Code, Chapter 148 (Medicine). Dr. Holley Bermel provides consultations primarily in English.

Dr. Holley Bermel, DO is a family medicine physician in Norwalk, IA and has over 15 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2006 and is affiliated with UnityPoint Health-Iowa Methodist Medical Center. She is accepting telehealth appointments. With over 15 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients. Her practice focuses on providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. She serves patients of all ages and has a special interest in dermatology.

Dr. Holley Bermel is committed to providing the highest quality of care and building strong, trusting relationships with her patients. She believes in a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing the physical, emotional, and social needs of each individual. She strives to empower her patients to take an active role in their health and well-being, providing them with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their care. Dr. Holley Bermel is dedicated to the ongoing health and wellness of her community.

Dr. Holley Bermel addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Moles (Benign Skin Lesions): These are usually harmless, but regular checks are important to detect any changes that might need attention.
• Herpes Simplex Infection: This viral infection causes sores and blisters, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing outbreaks.
• Knee Sprain: This common injury involves ligament damage and is treated with rest, ice, and possibly physical therapy.
• Wheezing: This whistling sound during breathing can indicate various respiratory issues and requires evaluation to determine the cause.
• Yeast Infections: These fungal infections are treated with antifungal medications to relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence.
• Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus, often caused by acid reflux, can cause pain and difficulty swallowing.
• Asymptomatic Post-Menopausal Status: This refers to the period after menopause without noticeable symptoms, though regular checkups are important for long-term health.
• Abdominal Pain: This symptom has many possible causes and requires a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying issue.
• Acute Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This serious condition involves a blood clot in a deep vein, often requiring immediate medical attention.
• Nasopharyngitis: Commonly known as a common cold, this viral infection causes inflammation of the nasal passages and throat.
• Tinnitus: This condition involves experiencing a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears.
• Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing can stem from various causes and needs evaluation to determine the underlying problem.
• Anxiety: This mental health condition can be managed through therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
• Ringworm: This fungal infection causes a ring-shaped rash and is treated with antifungal medications.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Holley Bermel addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Family Physician manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how she can assist with your specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms you are experiencing, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Dr. Holley Bermel offers a range of services to meet her patients' healthcare needs, such as:

• Chronic Care Management: Ongoing support for patients with long-term health conditions to help them manage their health effectively.
• Hepatitis C Virus Screening: Testing to detect the presence of the Hepatitis C virus, which can cause liver damage.
• Syphilis Screening: Testing to detect the presence of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection.
• Detoxification Evaluation: Assessment of individuals experiencing substance withdrawal or needing detoxification services.
• Incision and Removal of Foreign Object: Minor surgical procedure to remove foreign objects from the skin or other accessible areas.
• Health Screening: Preventative checkups to assess overall health and identify potential health risks.
• Independent Educational Evaluation: Comprehensive assessment of a child's educational needs.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: Evaluation and management of symptoms associated with menopause.
• Disability Evaluation: Assessment of an individual's functional limitations to determine eligibility for disability benefits.
• Wellness Examination: Comprehensive physical exam focusing on preventative care and overall wellness.
• Prostate Cancer Screening: Screening tests to detect prostate cancer early.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections Screening: Testing to detect the presence of various sexually transmitted infections.
• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): Measurement of blood gases to assess respiratory and metabolic function.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): Recording of the heart's electrical activity to detect heart rhythm abnormalities.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Holley Bermel. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a specialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Family Physicians in Iowa and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Iowa Board of Medicine.

Dr. Holley Bermel is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. Whether it's managing common concerns or pursuing preventative wellness, she helps patients set and reach meaningful goals. The following examples illustrate how this collaborative approach with Dr. Holley Bermel can make a difference in patients' lives:

• Patients find peace of mind knowing their moles are regularly monitored and any concerning changes are addressed promptly. This allows them to confidently enjoy outdoor activities and summer fun without unnecessary worry.
• With proper treatment, patients find relief from the discomfort of yeast infections, allowing them to return to their normal activities with renewed confidence and comfort. This often means a quick return to daily life without the persistent irritation and worry.
• With proper treatment and physical therapy, patients regain full mobility in their knee, allowing them to return to their favorite activities, whether it's hiking, playing sports, or simply enjoying walks without pain. They experience a significant improvement in their quality of life, free from the limitations of a sprained knee.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Holley Bermel, can achieve positive health outcomes and resume meaningful activities. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

The practice is located in a family medicine practice in the Norwalk, Iowa area, conveniently situated near key city attractions and public services. It is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Norwalk. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Parking options are generally accessible near the clinic; please inquire when scheduling if you have specific parking needs.

Understanding your insurance coverage is an important step in planning your healthcare with Dr. Holley Bermel. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Holley Bermel or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

• Aetna
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS II
  • Plan: Elect Choice (Open Access), Type: EPO
  • Plan: Managed Choice (Open Access), Type: POS
  • Plan: Open Choice, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Cigna
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• HAP Insurance
  • Plan: Health Alliance, Type: PPO
• Health Alliance
  • Plan: Health Alliance HMO, Type: HMO-POS
• HealthPartners
  • Plan: MN Open Access
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care Network, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice, Type: POS
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Medica Choice
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: POS
  • Plan: Nexus Open Access
  • Plan: Options, Type: PPO
• Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield
  • Plan: Alliance Select
  • Plan: Blue, Type: PPO

Important Note on Insurance Verification:

Insurance networks and accepted plans can change frequently and without prior notice. The list above, if provided, is for general guidance only and may not be completely up-to-date or cover all specific plans within a network. It is imperative that patients personally verify that Dr. Holley Bermel is currently an in-network provider for their specific insurance plan, and fully understand all coverage details (including co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance requirements, and any need for referrals or pre-authorizations for services with Dr. Holley Bermel) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (515) 285-3200 when you call to schedule. While our staff can assist with general insurance questions, your insurance company is the definitive source for your coverage information. Understanding your benefits ahead of time helps prevent unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

Please be aware that some services, such as certain preventative screenings not covered under your specific plan, administrative forms, or non-medically necessary procedures, may not be covered by insurance and could be your financial responsibility.

Dr. Holley Bermel may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• UnityPoint Health-Iowa Methodist Medical Center (Des Moines, IA)

She earned her medical degree from Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2006. She completed an internship, gaining foundational clinical experience at Oakwood Southshore Medical Center (graduated 2007). Following medical school, she undertook residency training in Family Medicine at Iowa Lutheran Hospital (graduated 2011), honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

She is Board Certified in Family Practice by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Holley Bermel:

Are services from Dr. Holley Bermel typically covered by health insurance in Iowa?

Dr. Holley Bermel, as a Family Physician in Iowa, likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs. However, it is absolutely imperative that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office at (515) 285-3200 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Holley Bermel is 'in-network' for your plan and to understand your specific coverage details, co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance, and any referral requirements for specialist visits if applicable. Some services (e.g., most cosmetic procedures, some administrative forms, non-medically necessary visits) may not be covered by insurance and could result in out-of-pocket expenses. Please ask our office about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

Do I typically need a referral to see Dr. Holley Bermel as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Holley Bermel to establish care as your Family Physician/Primary Care Physician (PCP), provided she is accepting new patients. However, to see most medical specialists (e.g., cardiologist, dermatologist), Dr. Holley Bermel will typically provide a referral after an assessment. Many insurance plans, particularly HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations), do require a referral from your designated PCP (Dr. Holley Bermel, if so chosen) for specialist visits to be covered. PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans may offer more flexibility for self-referral to specialists, but this might result in higher out-of-pocket costs if the specialist is out-of-network or if a referral would have secured better coverage. Always check the referral requirements of your specific insurance plan.

Does Dr. Holley Bermel at your clinic offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments?

Yes, Dr. Holley Bermel at our clinic may offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments for certain types of consultations when clinically appropriate, permitted by state regulations, and covered by your insurance plan. These can be convenient for discussing some test results, managing stable chronic conditions, certain prescription renewals (not typically for new controlled substances), or some mental health follow-ups. However, many conditions, new significant problems, or situations requiring a physical examination (like listening to your heart/lungs or examining a rash) will still necessitate an in-person visit for accurate assessment and diagnosis. Please discuss with our reception staff or Dr. Holley Bermel if a telehealth appointment might be suitable for your specific needs. Insurance coverage, co-pays, and deductibles for telehealth visits can vary significantly by plan and insurer; please verify with your insurance provider and our clinic regarding your specific plan's coverage for telehealth services with Dr. Holley Bermel before scheduling such an appointment.

How long do appointments with Dr. Holley Bermel typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Holley Bermel can vary depending on the reason for your visit. In the US, standard appointments for a single, focused issue or a routine follow-up are often scheduled for 15-20 minutes. Appointments for more complex issues, a comprehensive 'annual physical' or 'preventive wellness visit' (especially Medicare Annual Wellness Visits, which have specific components), a new patient intake appointment, in-depth counseling, or an in-office minor procedure will usually be scheduled for a longer duration, perhaps 30-45 minutes or even more. When booking your appointment at the clinic, it's always best to briefly mention the reason for your visit so the staff can try to allocate the appropriate amount of time with Dr. Holley Bermel. If you have multiple unrelated issues to discuss, you might be advised to book a longer appointment or schedule separate visits to ensure each concern can be addressed thoroughly without rushing.

How can I find a Family Physician (Family Physician) in Iowa who is accepting new patients and takes my insurance?

First, check your health insurance plan's 'Find a Doctor' or 'Provider Directory' tool (often online or via their member services phone number) to find in-network PCPs. This is the most reliable way to ensure coverage. Also use the 'Physician Finder' tool on the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) website (familydoctor.org). The Iowa Medical Board website may have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local hospital systems or larger medical groups, as they often have affiliated family physicians. Verifying insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling is crucial.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Holley Bermel?

Having continuity of care with Dr. Holley Bermel means that she is your consistent point of contact for your health needs over many years, serving as your 'medical home'. This long-term relationship allows Dr. Holley Bermel to understand the nuances of your health, track changes over time, and provide care that is personalized and proactive. It improves communication, reduces duplication of tests and potential for conflicting medical advice, helps in managing chronic conditions more effectively, and fosters a stronger physician-patient partnership, all leading to better overall health management within the US healthcare system.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Holley Bermel?

For most routine prescription refills, please contact your pharmacy first, ideally 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can often send an electronic refill request directly to Dr. Holley Bermel's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed. For certain medications (e.g., controlled substances, medications requiring close monitoring), or if it has been a significant time since your last review, an appointment will likely be required. Some insurance plans may require prior authorization, which our office can help initiate. It is always best to request refills proactively and not wait until you are completely out of medication.

What does it mean for Dr. Holley Bermel to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

'In-network' means Dr. Holley Bermel (or the clinic she practices at) has a contract with your health insurance company, with agreed-upon (often discounted) rates for services. Seeing an in-network provider usually results in lower out-of-pocket costs. 'Out-of-network' means there's no contract; your insurance may cover a much smaller portion of the bill, or none at all. It is always best to verify Dr. Holley Bermel's network status directly with your insurance plan AND confirming with our clinic before your appointment.

801 Colonial Cir
Norwalk IA 50211
Phone: (515) 285-3200

Dr. Holley Bermel, DO is regulated by the Iowa Code, Chapter 148 (Medicine) in Iowa and is licensed by The Iowa Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1083804793

Registration can typically be verified through The Iowa Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Family Physicians like Dr. Holley Bermel are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your Family Physician about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners or specialists.