Larona Barnes, PT

Family medicine allows me to see a wide variety of patients, and I thrive on that diversity. It is fascinating to get to know each person I see, hear their stories and understand their lives. I want to know their questions and their concerns so I can give them exactly the information they need. I want to empower each patient to understand their medical conditions and any treatment options open to them, as well as the risks and benefits of each option. I will work with them so they can make the best decision for themselves. \n Before moving to Charlotte, I worked for Hospice of Cincinnati for more than a decade. That experience makes me comfortable speaking with patients in difficult situations. I also have credentials in safety, quality and informatics, which means I am always focused on providing the highest quality of care, informed by both data and my years of experience. That benefits my patients as well as the University of North Carolina medical students I train. \n Outside of work, I enjoy sports and would much rather play than watch pretty much any sport except football; I'll leave that to the pros! In college, I swam for the University of Louisville. My children inherited my love of sports. My two daughters played collegiate soccer and my son played ice hockey. My motto, for both myself and my children, has always been, "The race is only against your own best self." \n I am an avid reader, but am perpetually behind on my list of books to read. I am currently working on learning Spanish and would love to someday speak enough to converse with my Spanish-speaking patients. I look forward to traveling to South America in the future to put my language skills to use and to explore the culture.