New doctor welcoming babies at Skiff

A new pair of highly trained hands is now bringing little ones into the world at Skiff Medical Center, thanks to the arrival of Malini Dandu, M.D.

The family practice physician is the newest health-care provider at Newton Clinic, where 13 doctors and two nurse practitioners offer services in the areas of family medicine, obstetrics, gynecology, internal medicine and podiatry. Dr. Dandu is one of five Newton Clinic doctors who deliver babies at Skiff. In addition to her medical degree and completion of a family practice residency, Dr. Dandu also did a fellowship in obstetrics.

Due to this specialized training, Dr. Dandu is capable of more advanced obstetrical and gynecological procedures, including cesarean sections and colposcopies.  She can also see women through pregnancies that are classified as high-risk due to gestational diabetes or preeclampsia (pregnancy-related high blood pressure).

Ever since her childhood in India, Dr. Dandu knew that she had a calling for medicine.  “I have a lot of doctors in my family,” she said. “They were my inspiration.  I drew my energy from them.”

During medical school, she came to realize that family practice would be the best fit for her.  

“It covers the whole spectrum of health care,” she said. “And as I learned that I enjoyed doing procedures, I decided that it would be beneficial and rewarding to add extra training in obstetrics and gynecology.”

By having a medical practice featuring both family practice and obstetrics, Dr. Dandu said she can enjoy complete continuity.  

“Not only can I see the mother during pregnancy, but I can also be the baby’s doctor after birth,” she said. “I can care for the whole family, which gives me a lot of happiness.”

“Newton Clinic and Skiff Medical Center are both delighted that Dr. Dandu has chosen to practice medicine here in Newton,” said Mark Thayer, clinic administrator.  “We couldn’t be happier to have her here.”

Fellow FP/OB provider Dr. Leighton Frost agreed. “Dr. Dandu is well-trained, a hard worker and an excellent listener.  She’s a great fit for the clinic and for the community.”

Dr. Dandu moved to Newton in early August, accompanied by her husband, a general surgeon. The town and its residents have been kind and welcoming, she said.  

“Newton is peaceful and relaxing.  And everyone, from my colleagues to my patients, has been so friendly and nice,” Dandu said. “This is a wonderful place to be and I’m thrilled to grow my practice here.”