Dr. Laura Nielsen, DO – Family Physician | Norwalk, IA

Dr. Laura Nielsen, DO is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Norwalk, IA. To confirm if Dr. Laura Nielsen is currently accepting new patients, please contact (515) 285-3200. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. Laura Nielsen is registered with The Iowa Board of Medicine and practices under the Iowa Code, Chapter 148 (Medicine).

Dr. Laura Nielsen, DO is a family medicine physician in Norwalk, IA and has over 10 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from Des Moines University in 2013. She is affiliated with Ridgeview Medical Center. With over 10 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients. Her focus is 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.

Dr. Laura Nielsen serves patients of all ages and is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Laura Nielsen provides consultations primarily in English. She is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of her patients and the Norwalk community.

Dr. Laura Nielsen addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Limb Pain: This encompasses various causes and requires a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying issue and appropriate treatment.
• Anxiety: Effective management strategies may include therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes.
• Warts: These common skin growths often respond well to various treatments.
• Sleep Apnea: This sleep disorder can be diagnosed and managed through various methods, often involving lifestyle changes and potentially CPAP therapy.
• Poison Oak: Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing further exposure.
• Low Back Pain: A comprehensive evaluation helps determine the cause and appropriate treatment, which may include physical therapy, medication, or other interventions.
• Hives: This allergic reaction is treated by addressing the underlying cause and managing symptoms.
• Actinic Keratosis: These precancerous skin lesions require careful monitoring and may necessitate treatment to prevent progression.
• Blood in Urine (Hematuria): This symptom requires prompt evaluation to determine the underlying cause.
• Headache: Treatment strategies vary depending on the type and cause of the headache.
• Diabetes Type 1: Management involves careful monitoring of blood sugar levels, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.
• Plantar Fasciitis: This condition causes heel pain and is managed with rest, stretching, and other treatments.
• Yeast Infections: These infections are treated with antifungal medications.
• Polyneuropathy: This condition affects nerves and requires careful management to address symptoms.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Laura Nielsen 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. Laura Nielsen offers a range of services to meet her patients' healthcare needs, such as:

• Arrhythmia Screening: This helps detect irregular heartbeats.
• Drug Allergy Testing: This identifies allergic reactions to medications.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): This test records the heart's electrical activity.
• Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: This addresses various sleep problems, including sleep apnea.
• Dementia or Depression Screening: This helps detect cognitive impairment or mood disorders.
• Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: This procedure removes pus or fluid from an infected area.
• Patch Testing: This identifies allergic contact dermatitis.
• Dementia Evaluation: A thorough assessment to determine the presence and type of dementia.
• Geriatric Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation of health and functional status for older adults.
• Disability Evaluation: Assessment of functional limitations for disability claims.
• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: Testing to identify genetic risks for breast cancer.
• Psychological Evaluation: An assessment of mental health and well-being.
• Chronic Care Management: Ongoing care for patients with chronic conditions.
• Herpes Simplex Screening: Testing for herpes simplex virus infection.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Laura Nielsen. 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. Laura Nielsen 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. Laura Nielsen can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With prompt treatment, patients quickly find relief from the intense itching and rash of poison oak, allowing them to comfortably return to outdoor activities they enjoy.
• With effective treatment, patients see a significant reduction in their actinic keratosis lesions, leading to clearer skin and renewed confidence in their appearance. Many are then able to enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about sun exposure exacerbating their condition.
• With careful management, patients experience a reduction in the painful symptoms of polyneuropathy, leading to improved mobility and the ability to enjoy activities they had previously given up. This renewed independence significantly improves their overall quality of life.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Laura Nielsen, 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 situated in a family medicine practice in the Norwalk, Iowa area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Norwalk and 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. Laura Nielsen. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Laura Nielsen 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
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• HAP Insurance
  • Plan: Health Alliance, Type: PPO
• Health Alliance
  • Plan: Health Alliance HMO, Type: HMO-POS
• HealthPartners
  • Plan: MN Open Access
• 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. Laura Nielsen 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. Laura Nielsen) 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. Laura Nielsen may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Ridgeview Medical Center (Waconia, MN)

She earned her medical degree from Des Moines University in 2013.

She is Board Certified in Family Practice/OMT by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Laura Nielsen:

Are services from Dr. Laura Nielsen typically covered by health insurance in Iowa?

As a Family Physician in Iowa, Dr. Laura Nielsen likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs (patients should verify Medicaid participation directly). However, it is absolutely imperative that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Laura Nielsen 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 the clinic about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Laura Nielsen 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. Laura Nielsen 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. Laura Nielsen, 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.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Laura Nielsen?

An initial new patient visit with Dr. Laura Nielsen usually involves a thorough discussion about your health and the completion of intake forms. Be prepared to share your personal and family medical history, a complete list of current medications with dosages, any ongoing health issues, and your overall lifestyle. Bring your insurance card and a photo ID. Dr. Laura Nielsen will want to understand your health needs, concerns, and what you expect from your Family Physician/PCP. Depending on the clinic's policy and time allotted, some physicians may perform parts of a physical exam during this first visit, or a separate preventive visit/physical exam might be scheduled for a later date. This initial consultation is key to Dr. Laura Nielsen understanding your health baseline.

What does 'preventative care' involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Laura Nielsen in the US?

With Dr. Laura Nielsen, preventative care means taking proactive steps to maintain your health and prevent future illness. This encompasses services like scheduled immunizations (flu, pneumonia, shingles, etc.), screenings for diseases you might be at risk for (based on USPSTF recommendations for your age, family history, etc.), discussions about lifestyle modifications to reduce risks (e.g., related to nutrition, physical activity, substance use), and regular health assessments to monitor your overall status. Dr. Laura Nielsen works with you to create a personalized prevention plan, many components of which may be covered by your health insurance without cost-sharing.

Can you explain common health insurance terms like co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance?

Certainly! A co-pay (or copayment) is a fixed amount (e.g., $25 or $50) you pay for a covered healthcare service, like a doctor's visit or a prescription, at the time of service. Your insurance plan pays the rest of the allowed amount. A deductible is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket for covered healthcare services *before* your insurance plan starts to pay its share (e.g., you might have a $1,000 annual deductible). Preventive services are often covered before meeting the deductible. Co-insurance is your share of the costs of a covered healthcare service, calculated as a percentage (e.g., 20%) of the allowed amount for the service, which you pay *after* you've met your deductible. For example, if the allowed amount is $100 and your co-insurance is 20%, you pay $20 and your insurer pays $80 (after deductible). These amounts and how they apply vary greatly by insurance plan. Dr. Laura Nielsen recommends you consult your insurance plan documents or contact your insurer's member services for details specific to your policy.

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 available online or via their member services phone number) to find in-network PCPs. This is the most reliable way to ensure coverage. You can 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 who are accepting new patients and can provide lists of accepted insurances. Verifying insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling the first appointment is crucial.

I have multiple health problems (multimorbidity). How does Dr. Laura Nielsen handle complex care?

Managing multiple health conditions is a core part of what Dr. Laura Nielsen does as your PCP. She will work with you to understand the full picture of your health, help manage various chronic diseases simultaneously, ensure your medications are optimized and appropriate, and coordinate with different specialists to ensure your care is not fragmented and that everyone on your healthcare team is informed. The goal is to provide integrated and patient-centered care that addresses all your needs effectively within the context of your insurance and overall healthcare access.

How long do appointments with Dr. Laura Nielsen typically last?

Appointment times with Dr. Laura Nielsen will vary based on the purpose of the visit. For a quick follow-up on a stable issue or a very straightforward problem, 15 minutes might suffice. For annual physicals/wellness visits, new patient consultations, or if you have several health concerns to discuss, Dr. Laura Nielsen will usually book a longer slot, such as 30-45 minutes, or occasionally more. Always try to be specific about your needs when scheduling your appointment at the clinic so the team can ensure enough time is set aside with Dr. Laura Nielsen to address your concerns thoroughly and effectively.

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

Dr. Laura Nielsen, 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): 1922447234

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. Laura Nielsen 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.