About Me
As a surgical oncologist dedicated to the care of patients with breast cancer, I work closely with a multidisciplinary team to provide compassionate, comprehensive patient care including the most advanced surgical techniques. Breast Cancer is a complex disease with multiple causes, types and treatment options. I ensure that my patients are provided with the necessary information about their diagnosis, their genetics and their treatment options so that together we can determine the most appropriate and successful treatment plan to fit their lifestyle and conquer their disease.
I serve as the Northern Regional Director of Breast Services and Director of Breast Surgery for RWJBarnabas Health and the Medical Director at the Center for Breast Health and Disease Management at the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center. I provide oversight and guidance through collective research and strategies of the system-wide group of breast surgeons at RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. I am also the leader of the woman’s oncologic health as part of the RWJBarnabas Health Women’s Health Program.
Following a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University, I obtained my medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina. I then completed my internship and residency at The Stamford Hospital, followed by a fellowship with the Breast Service from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. I am a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and I am certified by the American Board of Surgery. I am currently enrolled in the Harvard Medical School for Surgical Leadership program.
I have published several articles in professional publications, including The Lancet and The Journal of Trauma, and served on the Editorial Review Board for Women in Medicine Journal.
I am continually recognized as a “Top Doctor” by New Jersey Monthly magazine as well as Castle Connolly. I serve as a member of the Women’s Board of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and the Medical Advisory Board of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
Clinical Expertise
Breast Cancer
Insurance
Accepted Health Plan information is only as accurate as the most current information submitted. Prior to your appointment, it is advisable to verify with your insurance company they are still a participating plan prior to receiving services or care. Each plan is different and some provide different levels of coverage that could make a difference in your out-of-pocket costs. It is always best for the patient receiving care to contact their insurance company to obtain more information.
- Aetna
- Amerigroup
- Cigna
- Consumer Health Plan
- Horizon BCBS
- Horizon NJ Health
- Magnacare
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Multiplan
- Oxford Health
- Qualcare HMO
- Qualcare PPO
- United Community
- United Healthcare
- United Medicare
- WellCare
Articles and Press

Dr. Blackwood was named a Top Doctor by New Jersey Monthly, as voted by fellow physicians. View the list here
The Importance of a Personalized, Team Approach for Managing Patients with Breast Cancer
“In the future, we want breast cancer to not be ‘hopefully’ cured, we want it to be definitely cured,” says Michele Blackwood, MD, FACS. By putting patients at the center, treating them in a team approach, personalizing treatment and leveraging the latest scientific advances, we believe we will be able to accomplish that. Learn more

Breast Cancer Screening: Understanding Risk and Age
The most effective screening tool for breast cancer is a mammogram, which uses low dose X-rays to create images of the breast. Fortunately, when breast cancer is detected early, it is easier and more successful to treat, which is why all women should learn about screening regardless of their age. Read more