Comprehensive adult primary care, internal medicine and obesity medicine | Spokane, WA

Appointments can be scheduled online or by phone using our automated scheduling system. Links to scheduling are available throughout the website and in appointment-related communications.

Aristos Internal Medicine participates with insurance plans through Privia Medical Group. Coverage, copays, and patient responsibility vary by plan. Patients are encouraged to verify coverage directly with their insurance provider.

Patients may contact the office in the following ways: Patient Portal for medical questions, follow-up, and clarification; Phone for clinical concerns that require direct conversation; Text Messaging, available for administrative matters only, such as scheduling or logistics. Medical discussions should take place by phone or through the patient portal, not by text message.

The patient portal is the preferred way to communicate about medical care. Patients are welcome to send messages for clarification about a treatment plan, follow-up questions, and new medical concerns. If a message requires extensive discussion, medical decision-making, or evaluation, an appointment will be offered to ensure appropriate care.

Yes. Care is offered virtually or in person, depending on what is most appropriate for the patient and the clinical situation. Virtual visits are used whenever they can safely and effectively meet a patient’s needs. In-person care is provided when an office visit is necessary.

For telemedicine (virtual) visits, patients must be physically located in Washington or Idaho at the time of the visit, where Dr. Varner holds an active medical license. This requirement applies regardless of a patient’s permanent residence and is based on state medical licensing regulations.

When scheduling, patients select whether the visit will be virtual or in person based on guidance provided in the scheduling system. If there is uncertainty, the visit type can be adjusted as needed.

Laboratory testing is typically performed through LabCorp, with orders sent electronically. If you prefer to use a different laboratory, a paper or PDF lab order can be provided so testing can be completed at the lab of your choice.

Aristos Internal Medicine does not manage chronic pain conditions that require long-term opioid therapy. Patients who need ongoing treatment with chronic narcotic medications are referred to pain management specialists, who are better equipped to provide that level of care.

Short-term pain medications may be prescribed when medically appropriate for established patients who have been seen in person within the past year, and are being treated for an acute or clearly defined condition. The practice is not set up to manage long-term opioid therapy.

For certain chronic controlled substances, prescribing may require a prescribing or treatment agreement, periodic drug testing, and at least one in-person visit per year. These requirements are in place to ensure safe, responsible prescribing and compliance with medical standards.

The office is located within a shared medical office suite. There may not be a traditional front desk or receptionist. Patients should take a seat in the waiting area, and Dr. Varner will personally come to greet them at the scheduled appointment time.

Our practice requires a prior in-person medical evaluation before any controlled substances are prescribed. We do not initiate or maintain controlled substance therapy via telehealth-only visits, in accordance with the Ryan Haight Act and our strict internal diversion prevention protocols.