About Dr. Rapciak Dr. Maria Rapciak’s philosophy of care is based on making her patients feel heard. “I take great pride in providing patient-centered care as I work with my patients to decide on a treatment plan tailored to their needs and goals.” Dr. Rapciak said, “Patient empowerment, compassion, and education are crucial to a trusting healthcare partnership and successful treatment plan.” Dr. Rapciak decided on a career in medicine during her senior year of high school, while working as a nursing aide in an assisted living facility. Today, she is an experienced general surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive surgery and treats general surgical conditions including gallbladder problems, breast cancer, hernias, and disorders of the intestines, including colon cancer. “I am passionate about general surgery as it allows me to provide definitive treatment and surgical care while integrating the latest medical advancements and   technology so my patients may quickly return to doing what they love most.” Dr. Rapciak is specially trained on the Da Vinci® robotic surgical system for hernia repairs and colorectal surgery. She is also passionate about women’s health and enjoys collaborating with a team of multidisciplinary health care professionals to fight breast cancer. As a breast surgeon she has experience working at centers that earned the designation of the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). Dr. Rapciak uses the latest technology for breast tumor localization, lymph node mapping, and has experience with intraoperative radiation therapy. Dr. Rapciak earned her medical degree from Midwestern University’s Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed general surgery residency at Franciscan Alliance St. James Hospital in Olympia Fields, Illinois. She is board certified and a Fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons. She is an active member of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons, American College of Surgeons, American Osteopathic Association, American Society of Breast Surgeons, and the Polish-American Medical Society. Prior to joining Beacon Health, Dr. Rapciak practiced in Illinois and Michigan, with a focus on minimally invasive general surgery as well as breast surgery. In her own words… Who is or was the most influential people/role models in your life?  My mother who taught me great work ethic, perseverance and compassion. What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it?  I worked at a gardening center where I learned a lot about plants and to this day enjoy gardening. What is your favorite food? Movie? What was your best/worst subjects in school growing up?  Ice cream and chocolate are in a tie.  My favorite movie is Parasite.  I loved math in school and struggled with Physics. If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why?  Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She was a champion for women’s rights and worker rights. She moved mountains and inspired so many people to do better. In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? What are your hobbies, interests?  I love listening to music, attending concerts with my husband.  I enjoy gardening, reading and spending time with my family. What is something most people don’t know about you?  I love traveling and medical missions. Some of my fondest memories come from my trips to Tanzania and Ecuador.