New Patients
Welcome to Midwest Dermatology Institute.
We're so glad you're here. At Midwest Dermatology Institute, every new patient relationship starts the same way — with time, attention, and a genuine commitment to your skin health. Whether you're coming in for a routine skin check, a specific concern, or a cosmetic consultation, our team is here to make your experience comfortable and straightforward from day one.
Complete Your Paperwork Before You Arrive
New patients will receive their intake forms via text message 5 days before their appointment. You're welcome to complete them digitally through the link provided, or download them below, fill them out, and bring them to your appointment — whatever works best for you.
Policies & Agreements — You'll be asked to acknowledge these at check-in.
Minor Consent is required if the patient is under 18.
Schedule Your Appointment
We're happy to help you schedule by phone, secure text message, or online — whatever is most convenient for you.
Call Us:
Battle Creek: (269) 224-6554
Okemos: (517) 349-9777
Portage: (269) 202-8767
Text Us (Secure Messaging): (517) 514-4951
We use Klara, a secure messaging platform that lets you communicate with our office without the phone tag. You can also reach us through the purple chat bubble at the bottom right of this page.
Prefer to do it yourself? Use our online scheduling tool to book your appointment directly, or submit a request and our team will follow up to confirm your visit.
What to Expect Before Your Visit
Here's what to expect in the days leading up to your appointment:
A confirmation text 5 days before your appointment
New patient paperwork sent by text 5 days in advance — complete it before you arrive to save time
A reminder text the morning of your appointment at 8:00 AM
We recommend saving our numbers in your contacts so you never miss a notification. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give us at least 24 hours' notice.
What to Bring
Valid photo ID / driver's license
Current insurance card(s)
A list of current medications
Any relevant medical records or previous dermatology notes
A method of payment (we accept card and check)
Checking In
Our front desk team will verify your insurance, scan your cards, and collect any applicable co-pays at check-in. If paperwork wasn't completed in advance, we'll provide forms in the office.
Please note: Patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for their new patient visit. If a minor will not be accompanied by their guardian, a completed Minor Consent form is required in advance.
Your Visit
Your provider will review your medical history, discuss your concerns, and perform a thorough skin examination. Together, you'll develop a personalized treatment plan. Our providers take time to explain what they're doing and why — your questions are always welcome.
Checkout & Follow-Up
At the end of your visit, our staff can schedule any needed follow-up appointments and collect any remaining patient balance due at the time of service.
Insurance
We accept most major insurance plans. Cosmetic services are typically not covered by insurance and require payment at the time of service.
Insurance companies may take several weeks to several months to fully process a claim. For questions about your benefits or coverage, contact your insurance provider directly — they can provide an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) detailing your financial responsibility. If you have questions about whether we accept your plan, give us a call before your visit.
Billing
Any balance not covered by insurance is the patient's responsibility. Billing statements are typically mailed approximately 30 days after your visit. We accept payment through:
Secure text message
Our website
Phone
For billing questions, contact our billing team at (800) 290-5282.
Stay Connected via Klara
Our secure Klara messaging platform is available through the chat bubble at the bottom right of this page. Messages are shared only with our office — no usernames or passwords needed. Simply verify with your name and date of birth.
Questions?
Our team is happy to help before, during, or after your visit. Don't hesitate to reach out by phone, text, or through Klara.