David Tilstra, MD

What I Do

Patients with rare disorders are often misunderstood and not heard by the medical profession. I try to listen carefully to their story, in part to understand what they are going through and in part to try to recognize the condition they might have. I also want to provide them with a clear explanation of what condition they have and how to manage it so they can advocate for themselves. My clinical interests include inherited disorders and rare diseases of all sorts.

Why I Love My Work

I chose to pursue a career in medicine because I enjoy the science of medicine and seeing how that can be used to improve the lives of people. I initially chose to specialize in pediatrics because I enjoy working with kids. My interest in rare disorders and wanting to help patients and their families receive the best care possible led me to a career in medical genetics.

I enjoy the variety of conditions that work with and the satisfaction that comes from seeing patients move from a state of confusion about what condition they have to a sense of understanding of how it fits together and what to do next for their health.

Over the past nearly 20 years, I have been involved in health care administration within CentraCare. One of my enduring passions that emerged from this work is understanding the impact that the health care system and the community has on determining health, which is well beyond what is typically considered health care.

Getting To Know Me

Outside of work, I enjoy movies, reading, biking, and 3D printing. I am also engaged in community improvement work to try and improve the health of as many people as possible.