OUR TEAM
Transforming the healthcare experience for the patient
BLAKE CARDEN, PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT
Blake was born and raised in Franklin, TN. While being a collegiate athlete in basketball, he received his Bachelor’s degree from Trevecca Nazarene University in Sports Medicine & Kinesiology. He then obtained a Master’s degree in Science of Medicine from TNU.
As a board-certified Physician Assistant, he has garnered experience in family medicine, urgent care, emergency medicine, sports medicine, orthopedic surgery, and neurosurgery.
Blake’s interests other than his patients’ health: being an Atlanta Braves, Tennessee Titans, Memphis Grizzles, and Nashville Predators fan. He loves spending time outside working on his lawn/yard, playing with his two sons, and spending time with close friends.
ALLISON CARDEN, REGISTERED NURSE
Allison was born and raised in Jackson, MS. After completing her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Samford University, she moved to Nashville where she started bedside patient care as a Registered Nurse.
Allison has 10 years of experience in hospital nursing in medical/surgical medicine and mother/baby care at St. Thomas Midtown Hospital. She has additional years of experience in dermatology and general surgery outpatient clinic.
With her human relations and organizational skills, she founded her own Wedding/Event Planning & Coordinating and Interior Design Company (Honey and Fringe Designs, LLC) in 2017. Allison helps manage Cool Springs DPC, PLLC along with raising her two young boys.
EITAN FRIEDMAN, MD, COLLABORATIVE PHYSICIAN
Dr. Friedman currently practices Internal Medicine at Saint Thomas West Hospital. He is also a board certified Interventional Cardiologist. Dr. Friedman completed his fellowship training in Cardiology from Vanderbilt University in 2016 and his medical degree from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.
“I’ve worked with Blake Carden for the past 4 years in the field of Neurosurgery. He consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, professionalism, and a genuine passion for patient care. He is an excellent communicator who ensures patients feel heard and informed about their health and has great rapport with his patients. I highly recommend him to anyone who is looking to establish care with a primary care provider.”
William E. Gordon, MD, Neurosurgeon- The Howell Allen Clinic
WHAT BLAKE’S COLLEAGUES SAY ABOUT HIM:
“I had the privilege of working closely with Blake Carden, where he demonstrated exceptional clinical skills, professionalism, and compassion. Blake has a remarkable ability to build trust with patients, ensuring they feel heard and respected throughout their care. His knowledge of medical diagnostics and treatment planning is outstanding, and is skilled at collaborating with both patients and the healthcare team to ensure optimal outcomes. I would recommend Blake as an exceptional physician assistant and a valuable member of any healthcare team.”
Michael Sellars, Vice President, Operational Excellence, St Thomas Health
“As colleagues in medicine for almost 15 years, I have had the opportunity to work along side Blake in practice as well as watch him grow his medical knowledge set from primary care into various areas of specialty medicine. He is the first person I call when in need of sound medical advice for my patients, my family or myself. I am excited to watch him be able to provide so many with the care and access that our current medical system lacks.”
Erik A. Dygulski, NP-C, MSN- Milwaukee Orthopaedic Group
“I have known Blake since his days as a competitive college athlete, where his unwavering determination to succeed and his commitment to supporting his team were evident. He carried that same drive into PA school, distinguishing himself as both a leader and one of the top students in his class. Since then, Blake has made a significant impact as a physician assistant, contributing across multiple areas of allied health. His passion for helping others, combined with his exceptional efficiency, truly sets him apart.”
Jared White, M.Ed., LAT, ATC-Director of Athletic Development -IMG Academy
“I've known Blake Carden since he was a PA student. He is knowledgeable, professional, and above all cares about his patients. It's been an honor knowing and working with him over the years.”
Katherine Jones, MD -Middle TN Family Care Clinic