While practicing and living in Florida with her husband and two children, Dr. Lauren Skattum came to a revelation.
“I realized that I was eating a lot of ‘dinosaur’ chicken nuggets,” laughed Skattum. “I just felt awful, so I took a hold of my own health and wellbeing and discovered that I wanted to give that same kind of care and personal attention to my patients.”
In April of 2022, Skattum and her family moved from the sunshine state to Sioux Falls. She hit the ground running when it came to opening her new private practice, Britt Haus, opening a few short months later in November.
“I believe the best outcomes come from getting to know your patients and taking the time to understand their stories,” shared Skattum. “Britt Haus was born from that love.”
Britt Haus focuses on addressing the unique healthcare needs of women at every stage of life through Direct Patient Care. This model of healthcare prioritizes personal and trusting relationships between patient and provider.
Skattum understands the importance of creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for patients where they can openly discuss their concerns and receive individualized attention.
“Our mission is to empower women in their own health and wellbeing to have a generational impact on families and communities,” said Skattum.
She acknowledges that women have a tendency to focus on others, but when her patients are happy and thriving, this positivity radiates to everyone around them.
Skattum provides an extensive range of healthcare services, including primary care in gynecology, hormone therapy, annual exams, and lifestyle medicine.
“My patients consist of any female who is looking to optimize her health, wellbeing, and hormones in any range outside of pregnancy,” said Skattum.
Britt Haus is known for its patient-centered approach. Skattum takes the time to listen to her patients, understanding their unique needs, concerns, and goals.
“It’s easy for women to overlook their health when they’re busy with their families or careers,” shared Skattum.
Skattum says that she begins each hour-long visit with meaningful conversation.
“We talk about whatever it is that you would like to talk about and we take a deep dive into how you’re feeling, how you want to feel, and how we can help facilitate those changes for you,” she said.
The name Britt Haus is derived from Skattum’s maiden name and her desire to create a home that her patients could return to, no matter what.
The initial meeting is followed by a regular physical exam and vital check, after which Skattum will help form a carefully curated plan to help accomplish those goals.
At Britt Haus, Skattum’s patients can purchase a membership, as she operates independently of insurance.
The direct primary care subscription model allows patients to enjoy elongated appointments, more one-to-one time with Skattum, and access to same-day or next-day appointments all for a fixed and affordable monthly fee.
“Insurance has impacted the way patients are cared for,” revealed Skattum. “With direct patient care, you eliminate additional charges, fully address your concerns, and optimize your time.”
Members also receive access to the Club Haus, an online platform for medical resources in addition to interactive events, culinary medicine workshops, and more.
““I want to know my patients’ stories, and I have a firm belief that if you listen to your patients long enough, they’’ll tell you wha’’ts going on”.” – Dr. lauren skattum
The monthly fee covers each of Skattum’s patients’ visits starting with their initial evaluation. Skattum also provides a 15-Minute Discovery Call for potential patients.
The 15-Minute Discovery Call is free of charge and allows women to see what Skattum and her practice have to offer.
“It’s kind of like a date,” laughed Skattum. “It’s essentially asking the question of ‘do you like me?’ and ‘are we going to be a good fit?’.”
Understanding that informed patients make the best decisions for their health, Britt Haus emphasizes patient education and empowerment. Skattum takes
the time to educate her patients about conditions, treatment options, and preventative measures.
“I’m like the doctor with the little black bag, except I wear four-inch heels.” – dr. lauren skattum
“I work down to an individual standpoint to see what patients need from the optimization of nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management, and how that in turn affects hormones and hormonal management,” said Skattum.
This holistic approach allows women to actively participate in their healthcare journey and make well-informed choices that align with their goals.
Skattum’s efforts not only apply to women, but to the generations that follow her patients.
“If we can optimize a woman’s health, their family will begin to notice the benefits of healthy living, and then that goes to their family and so forth,” explained Skattum. “You begin to see the generational impact and I believe that’s what’s powerful.”
