Amanda Toye, MD, has been named division chief of Pain Medicine in the Department of Anesthesiology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, after serving as the interim division chief since November 2023.
Toye is an assistant professor and the clinical service chief of the Comprehensive Pain Service. She came to VUMC in 2020 after working in private practice.
Toye said being named chief of the Division of Pain Medicine is an honor.
“This role allows me to support an exceptional team of physicians and nurse practitioners, fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation,” she said. “It is an opportunity to further enhance our division’s impact on patient care and to contribute to the advancement of pain medicine through research and advocacy.”
While the department mounted a national search, Toye agreed to be the interim chief of the division.
“At the end of the day, we talked with a lot of dynamic and exciting candidates, but Dr. Toye proved the best person for the job,” said Warren Sandberg, MD, PhD, professor and chair of the Department of Anesthesiology. “While we were running the search, she showed us that she had the courage to learn on the job, and she effectively navigated some very challenging situations for the division.”
While serving as the interim chief, Toye focused on supporting physicians and nurse practitioners, ensuring they had the resources and guidance needed to provide patient-centered care. One initiative she is particularly proud of is incorporating a pharmacist into the Pain Medicine clinic.
“This has significantly enhanced our ability to manage complex medication regimens and improve patient outcomes,” Toye said. “As the division chief, I am committed to continuing this support and fostering collaborations across specialties. I look forward to advancing our practice and fellowship program and improving regional access to patient care.”
Toye plans to expand community outreach programs to educate patients and health care providers about pain management options and explore new interdisciplinary partnerships that can enhance Pain Medicine services.
Sandberg said Toye proved to be adept at managing complex interdisciplinary situations.
“She led growth in the division’s footprint and articulated a vision for education and research development in the division to match its clinical prowess,” he said.
Toye’s interest in anesthesia stems from the unique blend of teamwork and technical expertise required in the operating room. She said the camaraderie among colleagues, the ability to manipulate physiology with medications, and the procedural nature of the specialty are aspects she enjoyed.
“Pain medicine captivates me due to its multidisciplinary approach and the profound impact it has on improving patients’ quality of life,” Toye said. “Our Pain Medicine Division is extraordinary, with board-certified physicians managing a range of pain symptoms and collaborating with various specialties. We utilize procedures, medications and psychological interventions, and tailor treatments to each patient’s individual needs, making a tangible difference in their lives.”
