Dr. Grace Schwantes has always had a passion for education and science, and she finds working with patients and providing health care deeply fulfilling.
“Caring for members of my own community and being a resource for health information and education has always been a major motivation for me," she said. “I've always loved rural Wisconsin, and the opportunity to provide care in an area where I spent my childhood summers inspired me to pursue this field."
Dr. Schwantes received her medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin-Central Wisconsin in Wausau, Wisconsin. She completed a pediatric residency at the University of Connecticut children's hospital.
“Pediatrics was the most fulfilling rotation I experienced in medical school - there is joy in caring for children every day, and fulfillment in being able to provide education, reassurance, as well as answer questions for parents and families," she said.
She provides comprehensive pediatric care, including well-child visits, treatment for common viral illnesses such as gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, asthma management, care for localized infections and skin conditions like rashes, and support for weight and chronic health concerns.
“As a teenager, I volunteered at the local children's hospital and worked as a Sunday school teacher with elementary-aged children," said Dr. Schwantes. “I have always loved working with children, and my experience in the children's hospital was fantastic and fulfilling."
She is passionate about caring for children from birth through adolescence and emphasizes a collaborative approach to care.
“I use evidence-based medicine and shared decision-making with families," she said. “I strive to create an atmosphere of honesty, trust and transparency for every patient and their family."
Outside of work, she enjoys kayaking, crafts and spending time with her family and bunny.
She spent summers growing up in the Tomahawk-area and has strong family ties to Wisconsin.
“I always dreamed of practicing in the Minocqua/Rhinelander area," she said. “It's been my ideal location since I first became interested in medicine."