Natalie Vela, MD

Degrees: 
MD: University of Michigan Medical School
Academic / Professional Bio: 

Where are you from?     

Clarkston, MI

Why did you choose UA Family Medicine?    

I was seeking to explore a new region of the country and be in a place where I could work with a larger Spanish-speaking/Latinx/Hispanic community and have good access to outdoor activities and more sunshine – Tucson was a great fit! I was also particularly drawn to UA Tucson Family Medicine for their strong broad-spectrum training with unique opportunities in integrative medicine, global and rural health, refugee health and a Spanish Language and Healthcare Disparities track, all of which fit very well with my interests and what I was seeking in a residency program.

What are you most excited about for life in Tucson?    

I’m looking forward to finally escaping Midwest winters for a bit! I am also excited to try more Sonoran cuisine, go hiking/camping in nearby Mt. Lemmon and all over Arizona and check out the many festivals and markets that come through town. I also want to get a bike so I can start biking the Loop and participate in El Tour de Tucson at some point during residency!

What are your interests or hobbies outside of Medicine?    

I love most outdoor activities – hiking, camping, backpacking, running, biking, swimming, kayaking. My co-residents have gotten me back into pickleball and rock climbing as well! I also love cooking/trying new foods, live music, Latin dancing and traveling.

What are your professional interests within Medicine?     

I am passionate about language justice, including promoting language concordant care and safe/effective interpreter use. I am very interested in integrative and lifestyle medicine and how to implement those practices in lower resourced and culturally diverse communities. Naturally as a family doc, I enjoy practicing preventative care and managing chronic illness to improve quality of life. I also enjoy adolescent and women’s health and have a specific interest in weight-neutral approaches to PCOS.

Favorite way to spend a day off?    

Having a slow morning. Doing something active with friends. Going to the farmer’s market. Facetiming friends and family, including my baby niece!

Top item on your "Bucket list"? 

I really want to get scuba certified and travel to major scuba diving destinations all over the world! I’m already manifesting a post grad trip to do the Camino de Santiago/Camino Portugues. I also want to travel to every state in Mexico.