Alysse V. Cruz, MD

Alysse V. Cruz MD is a family physician at the Allina Health Blaine Clinic.

Hometown: Hibbing, MN

What is your practice philosophy? Growing a lifelong patient-provider relationship built on mutual trust and understanding. 

What are you passionate about? And why? Being an advocate for my patients. Having lived a majority of my life as a patient myself, I know the importance of being heard and supported by your provider.

If I wasn’t a provider, I would be a: A high school biology science teacher! Teachers throughout my education have inspired me to embrace and love learning the ever-changing world of science.

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? I became a provider to be the support and educator that a patient is looking for on their journey of health. Medicine became apparent to me as a career choice in late high school when I was labelled the “Mama bear” on my swimming team and simultaneously was learning anatomy. Medicine combined two areas that I relished. caring for others and biology.

Something I have learned from my patients is: Listen! Medicine is more than symptoms and medication. All aspects of a person’s life will impact their health such as their career, culture, education, access to food, upbringing and so much more.

One of the challenges of this career that I enjoy is (and why): Often as a primary care provider, especially with patients who have multiple ongoing concerns, that you become the coordinator amongst an array of specialists. You are a jack of all trades, but find a balance of providing the best care you can from your field of training and also collaborate with specialists to provide the best evidence based care to a patient.

My personal health goal is: Compete in an open water swim competition. 
To cook a majority of my meals at home.

What is the best thing you’ve done for your health or the best health advice you’ve received? Meditation without question. I had tried it several times in the past few years, but never felt like I took it seriously or grasped why people did it. After doing some research on guided meditation and technology, I found guided meditations through an app has truly helped me slow down and focus on myself, even if briefly, and be in the moment.

What are you most proud of? The strong and amazing women my siblings have become. Being the inaugural speaker for the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point multicultural graduation.

What are a few of your personal achievements? Being awarded the Chancellors Leadership Award at UW-Stevens Point. Being a first-generation physician.