Staff Spotlight: Toni Carver, LPN Associate Program Manager

How long have you worked with the Potocsnak Center for Undiagnosed and Rare Disorders? How long have you been at Vanderbilt/VUMC?

I've been with the Potocsnak Center since February 2022. I've worked at VUMC since 2016 and with Genetics since 2018.

 

What does your job entail?

My job has a lot of variety. My main focus is on patient interaction. I field all new applicants for our program, and I am their main point of contact as we work through the referral and application process. My day may look like talking with lots of new applicants, following up with current applicants, meeting patients on their first visit here to VUMC, or calling and tracking down medical records.

 

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy meeting lots of new people from all walks of life in my role with the Potocsnak Center. From our patients and their families to medical providers to researchers, there is always someone new to interact with and learn from.

 

What is your workplace superpower?

My workplace superpower would be my ability to adapt to change quickly. As with any newer program, we have had a lot of changes and we will continue to evolve as our program continues to grow. The ability to adapt and learn quickly serves me well, which in turn serves our patients well.

 

How long have you lived in the Nashville area? Where are you from originally?

I have lived in the Nashville area off and on my whole life. I have been back and called Nashville home for the last 19 years.

 

Favorite Nashville restaurant?

My favorite Nashville restaurant is probably Loveless Cafe. You can't go wrong with their biscuits and jams any time of day or night! It's a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

 

What are you reading, watching, and/or listening to right now?

I am currently reading "A man Called Ove" by Fredrik Backman. A friend shared the book with me, and I never turn down a free book.

 

What does your ideal weekend look like?

My ideal weekend is spent enjoying time with my husband and our two children. My oldest son is in school band, school choir, and school drama club. My youngest son plays baseball. When we aren't at a practice, a game, a play, a concert, or a rehearsal, you can find us enjoying the sunshine at the local parks and lakes or grilling at home with friends.