Lekha S. Racharla, DO
Cardiology, Heart Failure
LVPG Cliniciani
Accepting New Patients
About
Philosophy of care
I believe patient care extends far beyond medical treatment, encompassing empowerment, empathy and personalized treatment. I empower patients facing cardiovascular disease by demystifying their condition. Given the fear and anxiety often associated with heart failure, I focus on detailed education for my patients, ensuring they understand their condition and treatment options. Just as I would care for my own family, I approach each patient with compassion and respect, recognizing their unique values, preferences and goals and aligning treatment plans with their beliefs.
Why I entered medicine
Growing up surrounded by my family’s strong civic engagement, I developed a strong appreciation for the power of giving back. I see medicine as the ultimate means of making a tangible and meaningful impact on people's lives. Within the field of cardiology, I found not just a profession, but a calling – a path to touch and transform lives. Through preventive care, innovative treatment and compassionate patient interaction, I aspire to make a profound impact on my patients’ lives and communities.
Community involvement
Dedicated to the advancement of women’s health, I am involved in community initiatives. I have worked with the March of Dimes, raising funds for the mission of improving the health of mothers and babies. I pioneered a preventive health program in elementary schools, while also mentoring students to become leaders in community service. In addition, my involvement in Go Red for Women has allowed me to advocate for heart health awareness among women, engaging with the public through community events.
Personal interests
Outside of work, I like to maintain an active lifestyle with activities such as running, Zumba, pickleball and tennis. I am an avid foodie, finding immense joy in exploring culinary delights. Cooking isn’t merely a task but a creative outlet where I craft nutritious and delicious dishes.
Education
Undergraduate
Rutgers University-The State University of New Jersey, Bachelor of Arts (BA), 2013
Medical School
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), 2017
Training
Residency 2020
Internal Medicine, Lehigh Valley Health Network-Cedar Crest, Allentown, PA
Fellowship 2023
Cardiovascular Disease, Lehigh Valley Health Network-Cedar Crest, Allentown, PA
Fellowship 2024
Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Certifications
American Board of Internal Medicine - Cardiovascular Disease
American Board of Internal Medicine - Internal Medicine
Publications & Clinical Trials
Conditions Treated
- AFib (Atrial Fibrillation)
- Angina and Acute Coronary Syndrome
- Aortic Stenosis
- Aortic Valve Disease
- Arrhythmia (Irregular Heartbeat)
- Atherosclerosis (blocked arteries)
- Atrial Flutter (AFlutter)
- Cardiac Care Team
- Cardiogenic Shock
- Cardiomegaly (Enlarged Heart)
- Cardiomyopathy (Heart Muscle Disease)
- Chest Pain
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
- Endocarditis
- Family History of Sudden Death
- AFib (Atrial Fibrillation)
- Angina and Acute Coronary Syndrome
- Aortic Stenosis
- Aortic Valve Disease
- Arrhythmia (Irregular Heartbeat)
- Atherosclerosis (blocked arteries)
- Atrial Flutter (AFlutter)
- Cardiac Care Team
- Cardiogenic Shock
- Cardiomegaly (Enlarged Heart)
- Cardiomyopathy (Heart Muscle Disease)
- Chest Pain
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
- Endocarditis
- Family History of Sudden Death
- Heart Attack (Acute Myocardial Infarction)
- Heart Disease
- Heart Failure
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) in Pregnancy
- Hyperlipidemia (High Cholesterol)
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- Mitral Valve Disease
- Myocarditis
- Pericardial Disease
- Preeclampsia
- Sarcoidosis
- Shortness of Breath
- Syncope
- Valve Disease
Services Offered
- Advanced Heart Failure/Mechanical Circulatory Support Program
- Blood Pressure Control
- Cardiac Education And Research
- Cardio-Oncology
- Cardiovascular Stress Test
- Critical Care Medicine
- Echocardiogram
- Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)
- Exercise Treadmill Stress Test
- Heart and Vascular Institute Support Services
- Heart Disease and Pregnancy Program
- Impella Device
- Initiation of Anticoagulation, Management of Chronic Anticoagulation, Peri-Operative Bridging Education
- Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)
- Mechanical Ventilation
- Advanced Heart Failure/Mechanical Circulatory Support Program
- Blood Pressure Control
- Cardiac Education And Research
- Cardio-Oncology
- Cardiovascular Stress Test
- Critical Care Medicine
- Echocardiogram
- Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)
- Exercise Treadmill Stress Test
- Heart and Vascular Institute Support Services
- Heart Disease and Pregnancy Program
- Impella Device
- Initiation of Anticoagulation, Management of Chronic Anticoagulation, Peri-Operative Bridging Education
- Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)
- Mechanical Ventilation
- Nuclear Stress Test
- Pregnancy Hypertension and Kidney Care Program
- Preventive Care
- Procedural Sedation
- Second Opinion for Heart or Lung Issues
- Second Opinion for Surgery
- Stress Echocardiogram
- Stress Tests
- Therapeutic Hypothermia
- Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE)
- Ventilator Management
- Women’s Heart Program
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