Joy A. Gustin, MS

  • About
    • Specialties: Genetic Counselor
    • Board Certified:

      Genetic Counselor

    • Gender: Female
    • Languages: English
    Biography

    What I Do
    I believe in the importance of helping my patients understand the medical facts and potential implications of medical decisions so that they can make choices about their care. I support my patients in their decisions and am here to be a resource as they move forward.

    Through the years, I have enjoyed working with patients with preconception, prenatal, pediatric, and geriatric concerns. I also have found a true passion for working with patients and families with cancer. Approximately 5-10% of cancers are inherited and another 20-30% of some cancers are known to cluster in families. It is important that those families be recognized by health care providers.

    Why I Love My Work
    I love that genetics play an important role in all aspects of our health. When I entered graduate school, I thought I would be working with patients and families affected by classic conditions such as Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and muscular dystrophy. During my training and in the years since, we have learned much more about how genetics plays a role in common conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, for example. I appreciate that the field of genetics overlaps with all other medical specialties and can help people at various stages of life.

    My love for Minnesota certainly factored into my decision to join CentraCare. We also have a network of primary and specialty care providers here and that allows me to see a variety of patients at different life stages. CentraCare understands that genetic factors impact all areas of health and recognizing those factors can improve patient care and the health of our community.

    Education
    • Master’s Degree
      Master of Science, Genetic Counseling, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
    • College
      Bachelor of Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
  • Professional Memberships

    National Society of Genetic Counselors, Minnesota Genetic Counseling Association