Welcome, Lauren Barnts, MD
Alomere Health’s Women’s Health team has a new partner: Dr. Lauren Barnts, an OB/GYN who’s bringing advanced surgical training, a collaborative approach to birth, and a genuine passion for patient-centered care to the lakes region.
Dr. Barnts grew up in a small Nebraska town of about 12,0000 people, so when it came time to put down roots with her husband, Austin, the couple wanted to find a similar-sized community that gave them access to the great outdoors. With extended family in Sebeka and Farmington, in addition to annual fishing trips to Bemidji, they knew Minnesota was the right fit.
How exactly they landed in Alexandria was equal parts research and kismet. Knowing they wanted to live in Minnesota, Austin presented all of the right-sized communities and health systems to his wife—with Alomere high on the list for the avid hunter and fisherman. But when Dr. Barnts’ mentor met Alomere’s Dr. Rebecka Docken while sharing an elevator at a work conference in Boston (mentioning their need for another OB/GYN)… the decision became that much easier.
One of the things that made Alomere feel like home for Dr. Barnts is their long-standing collaboration between OB/GYNs and midwives. Dr. Barnts trained closely with a midwife group during her residency at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
Dr. Barnts is also robotic surgery certified, trained on both the da Vinci Xi and the newer da Vinci 5—technology Alomere offers on-site.
“I plan on doing a majority of my hysterectomies robotically,” she said. The da Vinci system offers more precision for complex cases: “It is extremely nimble giving me more maneuverability. With it, I can see in 3D—and it’s so much more ergonomic for the surgeon.”
Above all, Dr. Barnts says her approach to medicine centers on listening. “I approach care as a partner in your health journey. It’s patent-centered and the experience with me is more of a conversation. I’m not telling you what to do. We are both in this together,” smiles Dr. Barnts.
That philosophy extends to every patient, especially those hesitant to speak up about sensitive topics: “It’s really important for me to be that safe person that people can open up to and trust.”
When she’s not meeting with patients, Dr. Barnts is likely out and about with Austin and their two dogs, Harper and Pancho. She’s even been know to grab the mic for a little karaoke around town, so don’t be surprised if you meet her singing a song before you meet her at the clinic.
Whether you’re starting a family or navigating menopause, Dr. Barnts is now welcoming patients at Alomere’s Women’s Health clinic. Call 320-763-5123 or click to schedule your visit.
