Frequently Asked Questions

North Star Family Medicine

What hospital is North Star Family Medicine affiliated with for services?

North Star Family Medicine is a private medical practice owned by Dr. Kristina Lelcu and is not affiliated with any health care system. Dr. Lelcu is the sole physician in the practice, along with Ashley Gagnon, PA.

What if I need to be admitted to the hospital?

Patients requiring hospitalization are instructed to go to one of the local hospitals for care. Hospitalist, Physicians who specialize in Hospital Medicine, manage patients in the hospital. North Star Family Medicine has access to your medical records while in the hospital and can review them. We are also available by phone to answer any questions.

Does North Star Family Medicine prescribe Medical Marijuana?

The providers at North Star Family Medicine agree that while Marijuana is legal in Minnesota, it is not healthy to use. Like other legal substances, such as tobacco , vaping products and alcohol, we recommend against the use of Marijuana due to health risks. Prior to the legalization of Marijuana in Minnesota, no providers at North Star Family Medicine were certified to prescribe this for medical purposes. Our intent is to continue this practice and recommend against the use of Marijuana. We are available to discuss other treatment options for patients if desired.

Why am I charged for additional services during my annual exam?

Many patients are confused about the services covered during an annual exam and expect the entire office visit to be free. They are surprised when they receive a bill from our clinic, and we’d like to clarify what is covered and not covered in the annual exam.

The purpose of an annual exam is to review your overall health, identify health risks, and discuss how to keep you healthy. In addition, screening tests are ordered. You may expect us to check your vital signs (height, weight, temperature, blood pressure and pulse), perform a physical examination, discuss immunizations, health screenings, and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Blood tests or other preventative medicine tests may be ordered. The goal is to prevent disease before it starts and keep you healthy. You may discuss your current health, family history, past medical history and surgeries, the risk of having a disease, and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle without being charged during your annual exam.

During the annual exam, if you request additional services, there may be an additional charge. For example, if you need a medication refill or have knee pain you’d like addressed, this is billed separately from the annual exam. Depending on your health insurance coverage, you may be financially responsible for these additional services.

The providers and staff at North Star Family Medicine are happy to discuss additional issues during your annual exam. We understand that coming to the clinic for another visit apart from your annual exam may be an inconvenience. Please keep in mind, if you decide to ask additional questions, you may be responsible financially for a portion of the clinic visit. If you have any questions before or during the visit, please ask a member of the office staff and we are available to answer any questions you may have.

Thank you for supporting independent medical practices and for paying your bill in a timely manner.

Does North Star Family Medicine offer telehealth services?

Currently, telehealth is not offered. Dr. Lelcu believes meeting with patients face to face in clinic to obtain an accurate history and physical exam is required to provide exceptional health care.

What if I need a referral to a Specialist?

We can provide referrals to all Medical Specialties for additional evaluation as needed.

What insurances do you accept?

What is the cost of services for cash patients?

The clinic offers a 10% discount for cash paying patients at the time of visit.

It is difficult to determine the cost of the visit prior to meeting with the patient. On average, the cost of an initial visit is approximately $300 and follow up is $250. Many factors, including length of visit and complexity of the disease, determine the final cost.

Other costs, including labs, x-rays, and procedures are additional.

Call the office and the staff may review charges with you for the services desired.

What physical exams does the clinic offer?

North Star Family Medicine offers annual physical exams, Medicare Wellness Exams, Well Child Checks and CDL exams.

Does North Star Family Medicine offer Urgent Care services?

We have same day appointments available and the ability to evaluate and treat urgent care patients. We are open each day till 5:00 PM Monday through Thursday. Friday we close at noon. 

Do I need to see a provider to schedule IV hydration services?

You may call the office and schedule one of our IV services without seeing provider. If there is a concern, our nurses are trained to identify health issues and communicate to our providers.

Do you accept walk-ins or same day appointments?

Yes! Absolutley!