MSSN’s Brittney DiBella awarded ‘Unsung Hero’

The dedication and selflessness of emergency medicine physicians often can go unnoticed, but the New York American College of Emergency Physicians is shining a spotlight on those unsung heroes at Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital, the closest hospital for Freeport residents. Dr. Brittney Di Bella, a night staff physician at Mount Sinai South Nassau Emergency Department, has been named a recipient of the 2023 Emergency Medicine Unsung Hero Award.

The accolade celebrates individuals deeply committed to the mission of the Emergency Department, showing unwavering support for colleagues, coworkers, and, most importantly, patients.

“Dr. Di Bella will assist any patient or staff member and respond with solutions that raise our standards and improve the quality of the care patients receive in the Emergency Department,” said Jay Itzkowitz, Chair of the Department of emergency medicine. “Not only is she a leader in the department, but she also cares about the well-being of all staff members, initiating social gatherings for department staff and collecting funds to celebrate staff and department achievements as well as to bring relief to staff members experiencing tough times.”

“Dr. Di Bella is defined by her professionalism, compassion, and humility,” said Adhi Sharma President of Mount Sinai South Nassau who praised Di Bella’s professionalism, compassion, and humility, noting her widespread respect among colleagues. “She is highly respected by all staff in the Emergency Department.”

A resident of West Islip, DiBella, 39, has been an integral part of Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Emergency Department since 2016. Her journey to this prestigious recognition began with her graduation from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2012, followed by a rigorous emergency medicine residency at St. Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx, where she served as chief resident.

The challenges posed by the pandemic tested the resilience of healthcare professionals worldwide, and DiBella was no exception. Amidst the chaos DiBella’s dedication to her patients embodied the spirit of an unsung hero.

Outside the Emergency Department, DiBella is a mother of three boys, juggling the demands of motherhood with her demanding profession which see’s her working during the night. Despite the countless hurdles, Di Bella remains steadfast in her pursuit of making a meaningful impact in the lives of those she encounters.

The New York American College of Emergency Physicians, representing over 3,200 emergency medicine professionals across the state, advocates for equitable access to quality healthcare, particularly in emergency situations. The organization’s mission aligns closely with DiBella’s commitment to promoting efficient and effective utilization practices in the delivery of emergency services.

DiBella said there is a strong bond with the hospital’s night staff, fostering a positive relationship built on mutual respect and camaraderie and her recognition not only celebrates her individual achievements but also serves as a testament to the dedication of emergency medicine professionals in providing essential care to communities.