Maithili Rao, MD
Specialties: Hematology, Oncology
Areas of Interest:
Anemia, Breast Cancer, Colon Cancer, Lymphoma, Leukemia, Pancreatic Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Brain Cancer
Practice Founder:
Dr. Maithili Rao founded ACOHA with the vision of building an integrated approach to treating cancer and blood disorders, with a focus on excelling at patient care and quality. The practice has now grown to 6 locations in Springfield (Summit, Short Hills), Morristown (Florham Park, Mendham), West Orange (Livingston, E. Hanover), Hackettstown (Newton, Sparta), Rockaway (Denville, Randolph) and Pompton Plains (Wayne, Riverdale) areas. Prior to ACOHA, Dr. Rao established an extremely busy and successful practice in Morris county with offices at Carol Simon Cancer Center in Morristown Memorial Hospital and Cancer Care at Saint Clare’s Denville Hospital. She was voted NJ Monthly Magazine’s “Top Doctor” in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 – and was featured on the cover of 2013 issue. Six state-of-the-art locations to service New Jersey statewide as Oncologist NJ Practitioners and Hematologist Specialists with exceptional compassion. Dr. Rao is ABIM Board-Certified in Medical Oncology and Hematology.
Dr. Rao is a national speaker in the area of Genetics and other cutting edge treatments in the areas of Oncology and Hematology. With her many community outreach programs, and active involvement in cancer fundraising, Dr. Rao has solidified a strong presence in the community treating all areas of hematological and oncological issues. She has a special interest in breast and ovarian cancer, leukemia, genetics, and management of complex hematology issues for high-risk pregnancy patients.
Dr. Rao has published and presented several peer-reviewed articles, posters, and abstracts at regional and national oncology meetings. As an active and concerned oncologist, Dr. Rao gives several lectures a year for patients and their families, community organizations, nursing and physician groups, and residents.
Accolades:
Dr. Maithili Rao is a thought leader in Oncology. She is frequently invited to speak at Universities, community, and teaching events. In addition to being voted NJ Monthly Top Doctor for eight consecutive years, Dr. Rao has earned a Clinical Excellence Award at Overlook Hospital, was awarded for Outstanding Research & Scholarship by Saint Barnabas Medical Center. Dr. Rao was a Keynote Speaker for Cancer Survivors for Relay for Life. She has been a National Speaker in the areas of Genetics, Novartis, Janssen, and Prometheus Labs. Dr. Rao’s lectures include the topics of; Breast Cancer and Genetics, Review of Gynecological Malignancies, Disorders of White Blood Cells, Review of Adjuvant Chemotherapy Trials in Lung Cancer, and Updates in Cancer Screening and Strategies for Cancer Prevention, to name a few. Dr. Rao’s ability to spot trends, develop strong relationships with Northern Jersey physicians, hospital, and pharmaceutical executives is paramount. Her reputation for delivering consistent results and building extraordinary teams with a focus on quality care and patient safety is pristine.
“Dr. Rao Embraces Compassion With No Boundaries.”
An Exceptional Testimonial
In May of 2013, I was admitted to Overlook Hospital with a collapsed vertebrae from Stage 4 Breast Cancer that was wrapped around my spine. I could not even walk. Of course, I was a little bit scared. The next 2 weeks were filled with scans, radiation, had a power port inserted then started chemo.
Well, when I met Dr. Rao, a big feeling of calm overpowered myself and my husband Carmine. After the necessary testing, she came into my room and spoke to Carmine & I. She held my hand and looked into my eyes and told me I had Stage 4 Breast Cancer and she was going to take good care of me. She also said that I was going to live a long life.
That gave me all the inspiration I needed to fight this disease. I never (even to this day) cried or felt sorry for myself. For the first year… I literally went from a wheelchair to a walker, to a cane & for the past few years can now dance with my husband. And, through the miracle of God, my collapsed vertebrae healed on its own… AMEN!!
Through the years, Dr. Rao and her staff have become my second family. It is a place where everybody knows your name & are very proud of each accomplishment I achieve. I couldn’t have done it without the entire staff.
Of course, there have been a few times when my meds were no longer effective. Each & every time, Dr. Rao has a plan b (c, d, etc.). As she always says, it is just like living with a chronic illness, and that is a good way to look at it.
So, for anyone going through a similar situation, here are my suggestions. First, make sure you are comfortable with your doctor (who will also become your friend very quickly). Also, let your family & friends help you… not only will you feel better; but they will too. And, NEVER EVER GIVE UP!!
From my illness, I have learned that many people need encouragement and inspiration to get through life. And what better person, than myself, to talk to people and show them that although I have Stage 4 Cancer, Life Is Good and I am Very Blessed!!!!!
– From deep within my heart Kathleen M
Unparalleled Concern
Dear Drs. Rao, Strauss, Kaura, and the ACOHA Staff,
Your kind note of sympathy on the death of my husband, Robert (Tom) M., as well as your telephone calls, were very much appreciated by me and my daughter. Your concern for Tom’s welfare during his illness was unparalleled. The care which he received was not only compassionate, but caring. His wishes were followed, and he was able to end his days on his own terms. Although weak, Tom was clear-headed and alert to the end, and he suffered no pain which was a blessing!
Gratefully yours,
Judith M.
“I chose Dr. Rao over 6 Specialists. Her brilliance led to full remission.”
Contact Dr. Maithili Rao
To find out more about our facilities and services contact one of our state-of-the-art offices.