The VNACJ Community Health Center is excited to welcome Valbona Tonuzi, APN to the team! Valbona is a Family Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about providing compassionate, preventive care to patients across the lifespan. With experience in a variety of healthcare settings, she values building long-term relationships and helping individuals and families feel heard, supported, and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Valbona is proud to be part of a team dedicated to serving the community with comprehensive, patient-centered care.
What inspired you to choose a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner?
I was inspired to become a family nurse practitioner through my experiences caring for patients across the lifespan in a variety of settings, including the emergency department, schools, long-term care facilities, and primary care. I saw firsthand how access to consistent, preventive care can make a meaningful difference in people’s health and quality of life. Becoming a family nurse practitioner allows me to build long-term relationships with patients, focus on prevention and education, and care for individuals and families at every stage of life. I am especially passionate about serving diverse communities and helping patients feel heard, supported, and empowered in their healthcare decisions.
Why did you decide to join the VNACJ Community Health Center?
I decided to join the VNACJ Community Health Center because it is such a vital resource for the community, providing comprehensive care across the lifespan. From prenatal care and well visits for children and adults, to behavioral health services, dental and chiropractic care, and women’s health, VNACJ offers a holistic approach that supports the health and well-being of the community at every stage of life. I’m drawn to the opportunity to be part of a team that makes such a meaningful impact and ensures that individuals and families have access to the care they need.
What do you enjoy most about working with patients and serving the community?
I enjoy building meaningful relationships with patients and being someone they can trust throughout their healthcare journey. Working in the community allows me to meet patients where they are, understand their unique challenges, and provide care that is compassionate, respectful, and individualized. I find it especially rewarding to help patients navigate their health, prevent illness, and feel supported—not just during sick visits, but over time as their needs evolve.
What is one health-related question you are most often asked by patients, and how do you typically respond?
One of the most common questions I hear is, “What can I do to stay healthy or manage my condition better?” I respond by focusing on realistic, achievable steps rather than overwhelming changes. I emphasize preventive care, medication adherence when needed, healthy nutrition, physical activity, and the importance of routine follow-up. Most importantly, I encourage open communication and remind patients that small, consistent changes can make a big difference in their overall health.
What advice or message would you like to share with patients about maintaining their overall health and well-being?
My advice to patients is to be proactive about their health and not wait until something feels wrong to seek care. Preventive visits, screenings, and healthy lifestyle habits are key to long-term well-being. I also encourage patients to ask questions and advocate for themselves. Taking care of your physical health, mental well-being, and stress levels all play an important role in living a balanced, healthy life.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I value spending time with my family and being an aunt to my nieces and nephews. I also enjoy unwinding and spending time with my mini golden doodle, Nelson.
