Karin Potoka, MD, FAAP
About Karin Potoka, MD, FAAP
Chief Medical Officer
Karin Potoka, MD, FAAP, currently serves as the Chief Medical Officer, providing leadership and oversight for medical services. Her role involves strategic planning, ensuring quality patient care, and spearheading clinical initiatives. She plays a crucial role in implementing policies and guiding the medical staff.
Medical Degree and Education
Dr. Karin Potoka earned her Medical Degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. She has a robust educational background, also holding a bachelor's degree of science in Nursing from the University of Pittsburgh. Her foundational training set the stage for her career in medicine.
Pediatrics and Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Residency and Fellowship
Dr. Potoka completed her residency in General Pediatrics followed by a fellowship in Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. These specialized training programs equipped her with extensive knowledge and skills to cater to the needs of neonates and pediatric patients.
Translational Research in Vascular Molecular Biology
During her time at the Vascular Medicine Institute at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Potoka was actively involved in translational research in vascular molecular biology. Her research focused on the use of small molecules to treat Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension and Sickle Cell Disease, contributing to advancements in treatments for these conditions.
Current Academic and Clinical Roles
Dr. Karin Potoka currently holds academic and clinical positions including being a clinical assistant professor of Pediatrics at Northeast Ohio Medical University. She also serves as an attending Neonatologist at Akron Children's Hospital of Mahoning Valley, where she is involved in patient care and clinical instruction.
Previous Role at UPMC Children's Hospital
Prior to her current roles, Dr. Potoka served as an attending Neonatologist at UPMC Children's Hospital. She was also the Director of Neonatal Pulmonary Hypertension, where she led efforts in managing and treating neonatal pulmonary hypertension. Her work there included participation in various neonatal clinical trials.