Dr. Joel Ernster grew up in Colorado Springs and attended St. Mary’s High School. He then attended Regis University and graduated summa cum laude, with majors in biology, chemistry and history. He went on to earn a Master’s in Public Health at the University of Oklahoma and obtained his medical degree from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Dr. Ernster completed his otolaryngology-head and neck surgery residency through the University of Colorado and subsequently obtained specialized training in Cincinnati, Boston and Kiel, Germany.
Dr. Ernster has served as both the director of the oncology program and Chief of Staff at Penrose-St. Francis Health System. His research interests have resulted in a seminal paper describing the role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in throat cancer, which qualified him to become a member of the prestigious Triologic Society. His mission work has included three trips to train surgeons in Havana, Cuba.
Dr. Ernster presently enjoys treating patients with swallowing and voice problems, as well as patients with nasal and sinus concerns. His hobbies include grandparenting, creating new bronze sculptures, figuring out pickleball and spending time with his wife.