Faculty spotlight: Radhika Narla
Dr. Radhika Narla is an associate professor in the Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition and an associate program director for the Internal Medicine Residency Program.
Early life
Narla was born in England and lived all over the British Isles, as well as in several countries, including Saudi Arabia, before her family settled in Staten Island, New York.
Her parents, Lakshmi and Koteswara, were immigrants who instilled in her the value of resourcefulness and the power of connection. Narla credits them as her strongest and most influential mentors. “Their sacrifices and unwavering support instilled in me a drive to seek opportunities for growth, embrace challenges with resilience, and build bridges across differences—values that continue to shape my journey every day.”
Education & training
Narla earned her bachelor’s degree in anthropology and biology from Washington University in St. Louis before going on to receive her medical degree from the University of Illinois.
She was drawn to medicine- and ultimately to metabolism, endocrinology and nutrition – by her appreciation for connecting and caring for people.
“It is a profound privilege to care for people when they are at their most vulnerable,” she said.
“There is something incredibly humbling and rewarding about earning a patient’s trust in those moments, guiding them through uncertainty, and helping them regain their health and confidence.”
She completed her residency in internal medicine at The Ohio State University and her fellowship in endocrinology, diabetes & metabolism at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
“Endocrinology, and particularly bone health, resonated with me because it allows me to build long-term relationships with my patients in outpatient settings, focusing on prevention, education, and holistic well-being. Seeing patients regain strength, prevent fractures, and maintain their independence brings me deep fulfillment,” Narla said.
After fellowship, Narla and her husband moved to Seattle, where she joined the University of Washington Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition.
Mentorship
“My path as a clinician-scholar has been shaped by twists, turns, and setbacks, but also by the invaluable mentors who guided and sponsored me along the way,” Radhika reflected.
Upon arriving at UW, she credits her colleagues with helping her feel at home in a new environment. “The people who welcomed me, listened, and prioritized my well-being, values, and aspirations helped me find my footing (and continue to do so!)”
The faculty mentors and confidants she found helped shape her commitment to mentorship. She said, “These mentors taught me that a passionate educator and mentor can profoundly impact a mentee’s ability to thrive.”
She has carried this with her as she has progressed in her career and stepped into leadership roles. “I came to see the privilege of guiding others as one of the most meaningful aspects of my career. I truly believe in trying my best to ‘lift’ each other up,” she added.
Clinical work
Narla serves as an attending physician on the outpatient and inpatient services at the Seattle VA Puget Sound Healthcare System and has been co-director of the VA Hospital and Specialty Medicine Multi-Disciplinary Osteoporosis Clinic since 2020.
“Being a part of the VA Osteoporosis Clinic with phenomenal colleagues Roslyn Burton (physical therapist) Christian Steppe (nurse coordinator) and Dr. Katherine Wysham, rheumatologist has been fun, challenging yet fulfilling – we continue to think about creative ways to support our osteoporotic patients.”
Narla and her team have worked on several innovative initiatives, including a pharmacy dashboard to monitor high-risk medications and a Nurse Bisphosphonate call system, which they are in the process of publishing and disseminating. They are now exploring ways to launch a fracture liaison service initiative in partnership with other VA colleagues.
“Having phenomenal collaborators who value synergizing clinical innovation with patient care makes such a huge difference and I am very grateful for our team. I also wish to thank Drs. George Mount and Rudy Rodriguez for supporting multi-disciplinary teams.”
The most fulfilling aspects of her clinical work include building long-term relationships with patients, preventing fractures in the osteoporosis clinic, and caring for elderly patients with a holistic approach to bone health and fall safety.
“Ultimately, it is the connection with my patients, their trust, and the ability to make a tangible difference in their lives that continues to inspire me every day.”
Residency program
As associate program director for subspecialty medicine, Narla helps oversee subspecialty elective training experiences, fellowship support & preparation, and the Resident Advising Mentorship Program (RAMP) for the Internal Medicine Residency Program.
"I am grateful for Dr. Ken Steinberg, Kelli Corning and now Dr. John Choe and the entire residency leadership team for their tremendous support and collaborative spirit. "
She is energized by working with new program leadership team members to set new goals and visions for the program, particularly around the subspecialty medicine curriculum.
“I cherish nurturing and supporting residents as they explore subspecialty careers—helping them find mentors, sponsors and amplifying their superb work and accomplishments,” she said.
She has also enjoyed partnering with colleagues and educators locally and across the country to understand best- and new practices to share with residents and support subspecialty fellowship preparation. “I am in awe of our dedicated and bright faculty!”
For her excellence in clinical teaching, clinical care, and scholarship, Narla was recognized with the 2023 Seattle VA Medical Center Steven R. McGee, MD Teaching Excellence Award.
Service
In 2024, Narla joined the Gender Equity Council and has since served as co-lead for the department’s Gender Equity Awards.
She is also a committee member for one of the groups in the American Society of Bone Mineral Research (ASBMR).
“I enjoy promoting initiatives to strengthen the field of bone and mineral research whether that’s through educational resources networking opportunities, or bone health clinicians and investigators’ career development needs.”
Outside of her professional work, Narla is an active volunteer for activities and events in her children’s school community.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to support their learning environment, connect with other families, and contribute to a sense of community locally,” she said. “There’s something truly special about seeing the excitement and curiosity in young minds and playing a small role in creating positive experiences for them.”
Personal
Narla has always had a love for art, with drawing being one of her favorite hobbies. “Even now, I find creative joy in making vibrant rangoli designs with colored chalk in front of our home during Indian festivals.”
She is also the proud mother of two sons, Viraj and Aarav. “Their hugs and love are my source of energy!”
"Outside of work, my husband, boys and I love to travel. Our weekends are filled with energy and joy as we cheer them on at their soccer games."
Additionally, Narla loves challenging herself in the kitchen by experimenting with new Indian recipes to share with her family.
“Nothing makes me happier than hearing my youngest son, Aarav, proudly say, ‘Amma, you make the best dahl in the world!’ And yes, I agree with him folks.”