Nicole Johnston, MD
Specialty: Cornerstone Family Practice, Primary Care
Phone: 5632522141
Email:
Location: 200 Main St. Guttenberg, IA 52052
College/Medical School: Wartburg College, University of Iowa – Carver College of Medicine
Board Certification: American Board of Family Medicine
Residency: Gunderson Lutheran Medical Center
Nicole Johnston, MD, grew up in the rural community of Oelwein, Iowa, where she developed a lifelong love of science and helping others. Her inspiration to pursue medicine came during her senior year of high school when her grandfather became ill and received compassionate hospice care. The experience left a deep impression on her and inspired her to dedicate her career to helping others achieve health and healing.
Dr. Johnston earned her undergraduate degree from Wartburg College and completed medical school at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, where she was part of the Carver Rural Iowa Scholars Program (CRISP)—a selective track focused on preparing physicians for rural practice. She then completed her residency at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Early in her training, she was drawn to family medicine for its unique opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients and walk beside them through every stage of life.
During medical school, Dr. Johnston completed two rotations at GMHC with the now-retired Dr. Hoffmann—an experience that deeply influenced her career path. She quickly fell in love with the people, the community, and the culture of Cornerstone Family Practice, knowing this was where she wanted to build her career and raise her family. “The community here is so beautiful and supportive—it already felt like home,” she shared.
Dr. Johnston’s patient care philosophy centers on teamwork, prevention, and empowerment. She strives to meet patients where they are, developing practical, personalized plans that help them reach their health goals. “My role is to be an educator and a partner,” she said. “I want my patients to feel confident, heard, and supported as we work together toward better health.” Dr. Johnston and her family now call Garnavillo home, where they enjoy spending time outdoors, cooking, and exploring the local parks and river life.
