Dr. Gromko became interested in healthcare as a Candy Striper at age 14. She earned both a Bachelor of Nursing and Master of Nursing from the University of Washington. She has done bedside patient care, and worked as a Nurse Practitioner/Nurse Educator at Planned Parenthood prior to enrolling in the University of Washington School of Medicine. Dr. Gromko completed a residency in Family Medicine, also at the University of Washington, in 1987. Before establishing her independent practice, Dr. Gromko served as an emergency room physician and worked in a variety of women’s clinics. Dr. Gromko’s marriage in midlife took her into another area of medical exploration when her late husband fell abruptly into diabetic kidney failure. Having assisted with his home dialysis for several years before his death, Dr. Gromko is zealous about the prevention of diabetes and its complications, and is a strong advocate for the use of home dialysis when dialysis is needed. She is a frequent speaker in this area, and has written several books on her experiences.