Monday, September 8, 2025

Pediatric hospitalist joins Whiddon COM faculty

Rakesh Das, M.D.
By Milena Mata 

To better meet the healthcare needs of sick and injured children, Rakesh Das, M.D., has joined USA Health as a pediatric hospitalist at USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital and USA Health Providence Hospital. 

He joins a team of 14 pediatricians and five advanced practice providers who exclusively care for children in USA Health hospitals. 

Das said his passion for pediatrics emerged while caring for patients in his community after earning a medical degree. Growing up in a rural village in Nepal, he noticed the challenges children can experience when healthcare is limited. 

“I am passionate about advocating for children, as they are often without a voice of their own,” Das said. “Working with children and their families brings me immense fulfillment and continues to fuel my passion for pediatrics. Every child has a unique story and helping them grow healthier and stronger is deeply rewarding.” 

Das earned his medical degree at Tribhuvan University, a medical school in Nepal, where he attended on a full scholarship. He served as a medical doctor in Nepal, providing care in marginalized communities and leading immunization initiatives. 

Later, he moved to New York to complete his pediatric residency at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx, where he specialized in complex neonatal cases. During his time there, Das also rotated in pediatric oncology and pediatric cardiology, gaining a broader understanding of those fields. His research efforts have focused on the association between congenital heart disease and gestational diabetes. 

Das said he appreciates that USA Health allows him to experience both patient care and collaborative teaching and research. As an assistant professor of pediatrics at the Whiddon College of Medicine, Das values sharing knowledge and gaining new perspectives from his students. He said teamwork and collaboration in pediatric medicine ensure the best outcomes for patients. 

“The academic setting fosters collaboration and innovation, giving me the chance to help advance pediatric care,” Das said. “For me, it is not just about making a difference locally but contributing to a broader impact globally.” 

Das is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Society of International Medical Graduates. He is also the author of multiple published research articles. 

“I am very excited to bring my experiences, skills, and passion for teaching to USA Health,” he said, “and I look forward to serving children and families while growing together with this amazing team.”