Doctor of the Month - October: Erika Díaz-Narvaez, MD.

For the Spanish version of this article, click here>>Doctora del Mes - Octubre: Erika Díaz-Narváez, MD.

Doctor of the Month - October: Erika Díaz-Narváez, MD.

Geriatrics and Palliative Care

País de Origen: Honduras

Educación: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras (UNAM), Jacobi/AECOM and Mount Sinai Hospital New York. 

Años de Práctica: 16

Clínica de Atención: Ochsner Main Campus

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS:

- Ochsner Health System Doctor of the Year 2022 

- University of Queensland Top Clinical Preceptor in 2023

What inspired you to study medicine? 

I was very curious to learn how the human body works. 

What are you most passionate about in your profession? 

Making a difference in people’s lives, helping them feel better and enjoy their quality of life.  

Why did you choose geriatrics as a specialization? 

I chose geriatrics because of the proximity to my grandparents: I wanted to help older adults age well. I also chose palliative care because I saw that all of my geriatric patients were going to need palliative care at some point in their lives to maintain a good quality of life despite their medical conditions. 

Is there any condition that predominates in the patients you see? 

Dementia. This condition is challenging for patients when they are diagnosed and are in mild stages; it is also difficult for the family and caregiver in advanced stages. Our focus naturally shifts in advanced stages to caring for the caregiver. 

What do you recommend to people as a preventative method for that condition or health in general? 

Maintaining a good diet, an active lifestyle, and exercising are essential for both conditions. To prevent dementia, we recommend reading and learning new things.

What advice do you give to young immigrants or minority groups in the US who dream of studying health careers? 

Many opportunities are available, but they must work hard in school and not be afraid to dream or ask for advice/guidance from people who may know more about the educational resources available.

What do you like about living in Louisiana? 

The Latin community and the “laid back” lifestyle are very different from what I was used to in New York.

To make an appointment, visit ochsner.org