Some individuals are naturally drawn to the field of health care, driven by an inherent desire to care for others and make a tangible difference in their lives. They thrive in environments where they can offer comfort, support, and healing, finding fulfillment in the direct impact they have on patients’ well-being. On the other hand, there are those who are attracted to the world of technology. Their satisfaction comes from creating solutions that can transform industries and improve efficiencies.
It is quite rare to find someone who embodies both. Enter Toni Gadberry, Conduit’s director of transfer center operations, who has leveraged her background in health care technology to excel in managing day-to-day operations of Conduit’s transfer center.
Before joining Conduit, Toni worked over 9 years as a registered respiratory therapist before transitioning to a role as manager of the Epic ASAP team. In that role, she led a team of Epic application analysts who were responsible for the analysis, design, build, testing, and implementation of the Epic ASAP application for numerous emergency departments across a large health system. She leveraged her clinical bedside experience and technology expertise to partner with bedside clinicians and executives, all while supporting best practices and collaborative decisions.
She was initially drawn to Conduit because of the trust and admiration she had for the executive leadership team. Having worked closely with Cheryl, Dominique, and Dusti in various capacities throughout her career, Toni was captivated by their commitment to building exceptional services. “I trust their leadership and was drawn to the infectious excitement they possess for Conduit and the services they have built,” she recalls.
Her background in health care technology enables Toni to bring a unique perspective to her role. She is constantly pushing for ways to enhance efficiency not just for Conduit but for her clients. “My background in health care technology allows me to look at process improvement through a different lens. I’m always considering and pushing for ways our technology can provide efficiency, a safety net, visibility, or a customer/client experience,” Toni explains. For example, Toni was instrumental in a recent collaboration between Conduit Health Partners and Mercy Health – Springfield Regional Medical Center that streamlined care transfers of behavioral health patients from the emergency department (ED); resulting in a 64% reduction in ED length of stay for behavioral health patients.
Transitioning to a new role is never without its hurdles, but Toni embraces these challenges as opportunities for growth. For her, the key lies in reframing challenges into motivation—a chance to learn new things and refine her skill set. “Role transition should always be a challenge, and if it’s not challenging, it’s probably the wrong career move,” she shares. This mindset has been instrumental in her success, driving her to continuously push the boundaries of what’s possible.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Toni’s role is observing her team in action. “Witnessing the amazing care my team gives to patients and bedside care team members daily to ensure efficient and timely patient movement is incredibly rewarding,” she shares. This daily display of dedication and compassion fuels her commitment to her team and their shared goals.
As Conduit Health Partners continues to grow, Toni is particularly excited about the future. The expansion of services and the ability to support patient access across the nation are prospects that fill her with anticipation. “I am excited to see Conduit’s services expand and our ability to support patient access across the nation,” she says enthusiastically. This vision for the future drives her every day, knowing that the work they are doing will have a lasting impact on health care delivery nationwide.
Outside of her professional life, Toni is an avid long-distance runner. The challenges and full-body wellness—both mental and physical—that running provides are what keeps her motivated and balanced. Running offers her a chance to recharge, reflect, and prepare for the demands of her role.
Toni’s children are a significant source of motivation for her. She strives to set an example for them, demonstrating the importance of hard work, dedication, and a passion for making a difference. “My children and creating an example for them to witness is what motivates me,” she proudly states.
At Conduit Health Partners, we are proud to have Toni as part of our team. Her leadership, technical expertise, and dedication to patient care are invaluable assets that drive our mission forward. We look forward to seeing all that she will accomplish in the years to come, knowing that with Toni at the helm, the future is bright.
