Temple University School of Medicine - Skull Yearbook (Philadelphia, PA)

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want to be listened to, and devoting undivided attention to that patient in that moment means more than we sometimes realize. I know I've done my job when a patient thanks me for listening to them. I’ve also learned to be welcoming to opportunities that may present themselves, sometimes unexpectedly, and to not stay too rigid to a career plan. I trained in one specialty, but practice in the environment of another. If you asked me in medical school if this was my plan, the answer would have been no”. However, an opportunity presented itself and I followed my instincts directing me down this path. And I’m so grateful I did. What’s a challenge you faced in your career? As I mentioned, I am board certified in family medicine, but have worked nearly my entire professional career in our emergency department Initially, it was a challenge to leave the familiarity of family medicine training and that environment and translate my training to the emergency department setting. Getting acclimated to the type of thinking required in the emergency department and n same time. I also wrestled with whether I was being disloyal to my chosen specialty and my training, but as time went on I felt suited for the work I was doing and like I found the perfect fit . Who is someone who has inspired you during the course of your career? During my residency training, I had the honor of working with Dr. Ken Patrick, currently a hospitalist at Fox Chase Cancer Center. Nearly everything I do when interacting with patients, including the way I phrase some things, is modeled after him. He taught me the art of medicine is as important as the science. Since my early days in the Emergency Department, I have drawn inspiration from the leadership. When faced with a challenging professional situation, I often start formulating my solution by thinking what would Bob do?”. In addition to my EM colleagues, Sharon Mattia has been a voice of reason, understanding and a wealth of knowledge. She inspires me with her unconditional support, guidance and confidence in me. I am lucky to have a family that inspires and motivates me. I grew up in a family of educators and my father, a retired high school English teacher, was quite a fixture in his school district I sensed his dedication to his students from a very young age and I'd like to think I inherited that quality from him. My husband, Len, and daughter, Sophia, have been

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Interview by Justin Nichols Tell us about yourself: I grew up locally in Bristol, a small town in Lower Bucks County, PA After graduating from Holy Family College, I did research for a year on the Human Genome Project while applying to medical school. Growing up I always wanted to be an orthodontist, but then decided medicine was for me. After graduating from MCP-Hahnemann School of Medicine, I trained in family medicine in a local community program. Interestingly, shortly after completing my training, I started working in the Temple Emergency Department and have never looked back! It’s been great! In addition to being able to work with wonderful colleagues and patients in a setting that I enjoy, I have been able to further my interest in medical education and work with the students regularly. I love it! What have you enjoyed about being in medical education? Simply put, I love working with the students. Particularly. I love the Aha!” moment students experience throughout their clinical rotations. I can read it on their faces when they truly get it”, whether it is specific physical exam finding, something I’m showing them under the microscope, or a skill they’ve mastered in the simulation center. Being part of that moment is very rewarding and I don’t think I’ll ever tire of it. It is those moments that continue to drive me to give 100% and to aim to be a good role model for them. c Q) DEDICATION What are some important lessons you’ve learned along the way in your career? One thing I've learned is that every patient interaction should be an individualized encounter for that patient. Protocols, clinical decision rules and algorithms may drive what we do, but they are not everything. Patients continued on page 6

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very supportive and encouraging with any career venture I’ve embraced, and I want to make them proud. I am inspired by the hard work and determination I've seen my daughter display on the softball field and basketball court. I have been amazed by her calm demeanor under pressure and am excited to see her leadership skills developing. I hope to be as good a role model for her as she is for me. What are some of your hobbies outside of medicine? My family and I like to stay active and enjoy being outdoors. When I am not practicing sports with my daughter or cheering for her from the sidelines. I enjoy baking, working out, and crocheting. Recently we have had lots of fun visiting different amusement parks and riding the hyper coasters! What is your favorite song? That's a good question. I associate music with different life experiences, so it is hard to pick just one. I have a soft spot for Frank Sinatra, as his music reminds me of spending time with family. One of my favorite songs is Simon and Garfunkel’s “Sound of Silence . I also like what my daughter would call power songs - songs that we listen to before sporting events; right now, my favorite is Feel Invincible , by Skillet Very motivating! Any pieces of advice for the Class of 2018 as we transition into residency? I think you are all going to be wonderful physicians. Staying true to yourself and being genuine in your interactions with your patients will take you far. Never forget what it is like to learn something for the first time; this will help you relate to new learners. Remember to listen to your patients; they have so much to teach you. Always remain professional; a smile and a thank you goes a long way. There may be some challenging times during residency and throughout your career, but you’ve worked very, very hard and I’m convinced you can handle anything that comes your way. I'm so proud of you all. I wish you continued success! Dr. Barbetta