Procedure Volume Patient Data Patient Conditions Reviews General Payments Back to Top

Home > NE Providers

Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD

(No ratings)

Specializes in: Adult Endocrinology

Creighton University School of Medicine (2001)

Professional interests include: parathyroid disease, osteoporosis, thyroid problems, and more.

4350 Emile Street
Omaha, NE 68105

(402) 559-8700

Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD is an endocrinologist in Omaha, NE specializing in adult endocrinology. She graduated from Creighton University School of Medicine in 2001 and has 24 years of experience. Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD is affiliated with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Nebraska Medicine and UNMC PHYSICIANS.

Office Locations

Address:

4101 Woolworth Avenue Nebraska/western Iowa Hcs (636)
Omaha, NE 68105

Address:

4350 Emile Street
Omaha, NE 68105

Address:

Emile @ 42nd Street
Omaha, NE 68198

Some issues Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD can help you with:

Thyroid Problems

Thyroid problems are a group of conditions that alter hormone regulation and metabolism. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck, just below the Adam's apple (laryngeal prominence) and larynx (voice box). Despite its small size, the thyroid has an outsized effect on the body by regulating hormones that control metabolism. Metabolism is the body's process of converting consumed food into fuel to power the entire body. Heart rate, weight, cholesterol, body temperature, and even physical growth and development are all affected by the metabolism.

When the thyroid malfunctions, the body is unable to properly process and allocate energy. Thyroid problems, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), cause irregular metabolism. In some cases, the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid cells for unknown reasons. The damaged thyroid responds by releasing either too little or too much T3 and T4 thyroid hormones. Thyroid malfunctions may also arise from genetic causes or iodine deficiency. Thyroid problems may include:

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease that causes hypothyroidism
Graves' disease, an autoimmune disease that causes hyperthyroidism
Goiter
Thyroid nodule
Thyroid cancer

Hashimoto's is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones to stimulate adequate metabolism. The condition is diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and detect Hashimoto's antibodies. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include sluggish metabolism, inflammation, fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold. To supplement impaired thyroid function, patients with Hashimoto's are typically prescribed synthetic thyroid hormone pills. Such patients may need to consume synthetic thyroids for the rest of their lives. Other treatments may include dietary changes, such as the avoidance of certain foods and medication to reduce inflammation. Frequent blood tests can inform patients if their TSH levels are within a normal range.

Grave's disease is most frequently the cause of hyperthyroidism, which is when the thyroid produces too many hormones, overstimulating one's metabolism. The condition is also diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH and detect Grave's antibodies. Elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, sweating, bulging eyes, and weight loss are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Treatments for hyperthyroidism include oral radioactive iodine, which slowly shrinks the thyroid, slowing the production of excess thyroid hormone. Other anti-thyroid medications such as methimazole (Tapazole) also reduce the production of thyroid hormones. Blood pressure medications known as beta blockers can ease the increased heart rate caused by hyperthyroidism. If treatments are unsuccessful, patients may be prescribed a thyroidectomy, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid. Some patients with hyperthyroidism may require ophthalmological (eye medicine) treatments such as eye drops, prednisone, and surgery to reduce eye swelling and bulging.

Untreated thyroid disorders frequently lead to goiters or thyroid nodules. A thyroid goiter is a large lump that can be felt near the base of the neck and is made of swollen thyroid tissue or nodules (excess cell growth). Nodules and goiters are diagnosed by CT scan or ultrasound. Obstructive goiters can cause pain, coughing, and abnormal breathing. The most common cause of goiters is hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). However, Hashimoto's is also known to cause goiters or nodules. Goiters develop from continued damage from antibodies to the thyroid over time. At times, a goiter can result from a cancerous thyroid tumor. Most goiters and nodules are themselves benign.

The exact causes of thyroid cancer are unknown. People who develop thyroid cancer may or may not have another thyroid problem such as Hashimoto's or Grave's disease. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include a nodule that can be felt on the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swelling in the neck, and neck and throat pain. CT and MRI scans are used to diagnose thyroid cancer. There are four types of thyroid cancer which vary in intensity. Thyroidectomy (thyroid removal surgery) is usually prescribed to treat thyroid cancer.

Thyroid problems are often long-term conditions that require some form of treatment. With regular monitoring and medication, many people with thyroid problems are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.

blood draw	60
doctor visit	93

**Gender**
Male	18
Female	79

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	83
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	49
From 75 to 84	24
85 and over	0
Less than 65	0

Hypertension	48
High Cholesterol	41
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	23
Depression	21
Chronic Kidney Disease	23
Asthma	0
Osteoperosis	56
Atrial Fibrilation	0
Heart Failure	21
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	11
Diabetes	25
Dementia	13
Cancer	12

blood draw	18
doctor visit	58

**Gender**
Male	12
Female	63

**Age**
From 65 to 74	38
From 75 to 84	21
85 and over	0
Less than 65	0

Hypertension	48
High Cholesterol	40
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	20
Depression	19
Chronic Kidney Disease	0
Asthma	0
Osteoperosis	63
Atrial Fibrilation	0
Heart Failure	0
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	0
Diabetes	19
Dementia	0
Cancer	0

blood draw	17
doctor visit	45
hospital care	52
inpatient care	52

**Gender**
Male	44
Female	124

**Age**
From 65 to 74	72
From 75 to 84	48
85 and over	0
Less than 65	0

Hypertension	56
High Cholesterol	60
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	27
Depression	33
Chronic Kidney Disease	30
Asthma	19
Osteoperosis	54
Atrial Fibrilation	0
Heart Failure	20
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	15
Diabetes	37
Dementia	0
Cancer	0

doctor visit	270
hospital care	99
inpatient care	99

**Gender**
Male	75
Female	185

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	244
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	93
From 75 to 84	69
85 and over	50
Less than 65	48

Hypertension	73
High Cholesterol	58
Stroke	6
Ischemic Heart Disease	38
Depression	40
Chronic Kidney Disease	40
Asthma	26
Osteoperosis	65
Atrial Fibrilation	17
Heart Failure	27
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	23
Diabetes	36
Dementia	22
Cancer	13

doctor visit	343
hospital care	315
inpatient care	315

**Gender**
Male	106
Female	294

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	363
Black	20
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	158
From 75 to 84	89
85 and over	84
Less than 65	69

Hypertension	72
High Cholesterol	49
Stroke	9
Ischemic Heart Disease	37
Depression	35
Chronic Kidney Disease	48
Asthma	9
Osteoperosis	63
Atrial Fibrilation	16
Heart Failure	29
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	22
Diabetes	39
Dementia	25
Cancer	14

doctor visit	377
hospital care	292
inpatient care	292

**Gender**
Male	136
Female	346

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	438
Black	18
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	196
From 75 to 84	123
85 and over	85
Less than 65	78

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	60
Stroke	6
Ischemic Heart Disease	34
Depression	37
Chronic Kidney Disease	47
Asthma	9
Osteoperosis	61
Atrial Fibrilation	15
Heart Failure	27
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	26
Diabetes	40
Dementia	23
Cancer	10

doctor visit	453
hospital care	403
inpatient care	403

**Gender**
Male	163
Female	450

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	561
Black	21
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	13
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	245
From 75 to 84	162
85 and over	116
Less than 65	90

Hypertension	74
High Cholesterol	54
Stroke	6
Ischemic Heart Disease	42
Depression	39
Chronic Kidney Disease	52
Asthma	8
Osteoperosis	59
Atrial Fibrilation	16
Heart Failure	29
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	22
Diabetes	40
Dementia	23
Cancer	13

doctor visit	387
hospital care	395
inpatient care	395

**Gender**
Male	177
Female	428

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	534
Black	33
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	16
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	251
From 75 to 84	171
85 and over	86
Less than 65	97

Hypertension	70
High Cholesterol	50
Stroke	6
Ischemic Heart Disease	38
Depression	35
Chronic Kidney Disease	52
Asthma	8
Osteoperosis	54
Atrial Fibrilation	19
Heart Failure	30
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	17
Diabetes	42
Dementia	21
Cancer	12

doctor visit	1018
hospital care	501
inpatient care	501

Average Medicare Procedure Volume From 2013 - 2021

Volume of procedures performed by Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD for Medicare patients.

The highest averages for the top procedures that Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD treated as an endocrinologist in Omaha, NE were hospital care, inpatient care and blood draw.

blood draw	31
doctor visit	340
hospital care	293
inpatient care	293

Average Medicare Patient Data From 2013 - 2021

Information about Medicare patients treated by Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD.

**Gender**
Female	196
Male	73

**Ethnicity**
Black / African American	9
Asian / Pacific Islander	0
Non-Hispanic White	222
Native American / Alaskan Native	0
Hispanic	0
Other	2

**Age**
85 and over	42
75 to 84	70
Less than 65	38
65 to 74	110

Average of Total of Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD From 2013 - 2021

The highest averages of the most common conditions of Medicare patients that Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD treated were hypertension, osteoperosis, high cholesterol and chronic kidney disease.

Hypertension	51
High Cholesterol	41
Stroke	3
Ischemic Heart Disease	25
Depression	25
Chronic Kidney Disease	29
Asthma	7
Osteoporosis	47
Heart Failure	18
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	13
Diabetes	27
Atrial Fibrillation	8
Cancer	7
Dementia	12

Education & Training

Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD graduated from Creighton University School of Medicine in 2001. She completed residency at Internal Medicine,: CUMC School of Medicine. She is certified by the Board Certification: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism and has a state license in Nebraska.

Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine (2001)

Residency: Internal Medicine,: CUMC School of Medicine (2004)

Board Certification: Board Certification: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Licensed In: Nebraska

Affiliations & Hospitals

Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD is associated with these hospitals and organizations:

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Nebraska Medicine

UNMC PHYSICIANS

Insurance Information

Please note: Insurance information may change at any time, and the provider may accept your insurance plan even if it is not listed below. Please contact the provider's office to confirm that your insurance is accepted.

Insurance Accepted by Affiliated Medical Group or Hospital:

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska: BSCSNE Student Blue

UnitedHealthcare: Optum VA Community Care Network (CCN)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska: BCBSNE Network Blue

Medicaid Iowa: Wellpoint Iowa

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska: BSCSNE BlueCard PPO

Midlands Choice: Commercial plans

Aetna Healthcare: Aetna High Performance Network (Nebraska Health Network)

Aetna Healthcare: Aetna (Broad Network)

UnitedHealthcare: Medica

Medicaid Nebraska: Nebraska Medicaid

Medicare Advantage: Medica Advantage Solution

Medicare Advantage: HumanaChoice (PPO) Medicare Advantage

Medicaid Nebraska: Molina Nebraska

Medicare Advantage: BCBSNE Medicare Advantage Choice (HMO-POS)

Aetna Healthcare: First Health (except "First Health Professionals Only")

Medicaid Nebraska: Every Woman Matters

Medicaid Nebraska: UnitedHealthcare Community Plan Nebraska

Humana: Humana One PPO

Medicare Advantage: UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage

Medica: Medica Commercial

Tricare West: Tricare West for Life

UnitedHealthcare: United Medical Resources

Medicare Advantage: Aetna Medicare Premium Advantra (PPO)

Medicare Advantage: Medica Prime Solution Total Cost Medicare Advantage

Medicaid Kansas: Sunflower Health

UnitedHealthcare: UnitedHealthcare

Medicaid Iowa: Iowa Medicaid

Century Health Solutions: Century Health Solutions

MultiPlan: MultiPlan (Does not include PHCS)

UnitedHealthcare: NexusACO

UnitedHealthcare: Golden Rule

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska: BSCSNE BlueCard HMO (only with suitcase logo)

Medicare: Medicare Part A & B

Medica: Medica Insure

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska: BCBSNE Federal Plan

Tricare West: Tricare West Prime

Medicare Advantage: Aetna Medicare Premier Advantra (PPO)

Medicare Advantage: BCBSNE Medicare Advantage Core (HMO)

Other: Nebraska Furniture Mart Employee Plan Tier 1

Aetna Healthcare: Aetna Signature Administrators

Medicaid Kansas: AmeriGroup Kansas

Medicare Advantage: Wellcare by Nebraska Total Care Medicare Advantage

Wellmark of Iowa: Wellmark Blue HMO

Medicaid Kansas: UnitedHealthcare Community Plan Kansas

Other: Midwest Network Alliance

UnitedHealthcare: Oxford Health

Tricare West: Tricare West Active Duty

Medicaid Iowa: Iowa Total Care

Ambetter by Nebraska Total Care: Ambetter

Other: University of Nebraska Employee Plan Enhanced Tier

Medicaid Iowa: Iowa Care for Yourself

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska: BSCSNE Select Blue

Medica: Medica Elevate

Medicare Advantage: Humana Gold (HMO) Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage: Aetna Medicare Elite Advantra (PPO)

Medicaid Nebraska: Nebraska Total Care

Humana: Humana Choice Care

Show More

Ratings & Reviews

Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD does not have any reviews yet, be the first to leave a review of Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD here: Leave a Review

(No ratings)

Leave a Review

General Payments

These charts describe general payments received by Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD. Doctors may receive payments for a number of reasons, including meal compensation, travel compensation, and consulting.

**Payments by Company**
E.R. Squibb & Sons, L.L.C.	$2,003 EVOTAZ $2,003
Dexcom, Inc.	$341 DEXCOM G6 TRANSMITTER $242	Dexcom CGM $99
Amgen Inc.	$236 EVENITY $236
Novo Nordisk Inc	$224 Ozempic $113	Saxenda $111
Lilly USA, LLC	$100 FORTEO $100
Other	$415 ISENTRESS $95	Omnipod $79	t-slim insulin pump $49	VIBERZI $45	NATESTO $18	Other $128

**Types of Payments**
Food and Beverage	$1,479
Consulting Fee	$1,460
Travel and Lodging	$380

Research Payments

Dr. Laura A. Graeff-Armas, MD has received 3 research payments totaling $37,745.

Biography

Dr. Laura Graeff-Armas is an adult endocrinology specialist. She graduated from Creighton University School of Medicine. She has a special interest in diabetes, thyroid problems, and osteoporosis. Dr. Graeff-Armas is affiliated with Nebraska Medicine and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.