Black History Month Celebrates Dr. Samantha Bethel-Ellison
As we honor Black History Month, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of Black professionals who have shaped the fields of science and medicine. Among them is Dr. Samantha Joan Bethel-Ellison, MD, MBA, a distinguished trailblazer physician, researcher, and educator whose work in internal medicine, anesthesiology, and medical aesthetics has advanced patient care and medical knowledge.
Dr. Bethel-Ellison’s academic journey reflects her relentless pursuit of excellence. She earned her Doctorate of Medicine from Howard University College of Medicine, where she was an honor student and demonstrated early promise in medical research and patient care. She later pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master’s in Health Administration (MHA) at Florida Atlantic University, graduating with honors. Her diverse academic background has equipped her with the leadership skills necessary to navigate complex healthcare systems and improve patient outcomes.
Her dedication to internal medicine and hospital-based care has led her to spearhead initiatives focusing on sepsis management, inpatient efficiency, and critical care improvements, ensuring the highest standards of patient treatment. Dr. Bethel-Ellison has made significant contributions to scientific research, particularly in cancer prevention, hematology, and internal medicine. Her work has been published and presented at prestigious medical conferences, influencing advancements in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some of her notable research includes:
· A Case of Colon Cancer Profile-Cancer of Unknown Primary Masquerading as Ovarian Carcinoma (2015)
· A Rare Case of Combined Factor V Leiden and Prothrombin Gene G20210A Mutations (2015)
· Do Pre-Treatment Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Levels Affect Outcomes in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer? (2016)
· Acute Leukemia in Adult Hispanic Americans: A Large Population Study (2016)
Dr. Samantha Bethel-Ellison’s research has had a profound impact on the medical and scientific communities, particularly in the fields of oncology, hematology, and internal medicine. By having her work published in leading medical journals such as Blood Cancer Journal and Anti-Cancer Research Journal, she has contributed critical insights that influence both clinical practice and future research directions.
Her studies on prostate cancer, leukemia, and rare genetic blood disorders have provided valuable data that help clinicians develop more targeted treatment plans, improving patient outcomes. For example, her research on metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer has helped shed light on how pre-treatment PSA levels affect patient responses to therapy, leading to better personalized treatment strategies.
Additionally, her findings on Factor V Leiden and Prothrombin Gene G20210A mutations have helped the medical community understand the genetic risks associated with blood clotting disorders, potentially leading to improved screening and preventative measures for high-risk populations.
By presenting her research at major conferences such as the American College of Physicians (ACP) Annual Conference, Dr. Bethel-Ellison has shared her findings with physicians, scientists, and healthcare leaders worldwide. These conferences serve as a platform for medical professionals to discuss emerging trends, refine treatment protocols, and adopt innovative research-backed practices.
Her work has contributed to:
✅ Enhanced early cancer detection and diagnosis techniques
✅ New approaches to hematology-related genetic disorders
✅ Improved decision-making in internal medicine and oncology
✅ Refinement of medical education and evidence-based patient care
Beyond research, Dr. Bethel-Ellison’s contributions have influenced clinical guidelines and best practices. As her findings are cited in further studies and integrated into medical education curricula, she is helping to train the next generation of physicians and researchers in better diagnosing, treating, and managing complex diseases.
Her work continues to push the boundaries of medical knowledge, inspiring innovation in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, where new treatments and therapies are developed based on groundbreaking research like hers.
Dr. Samantha Bethel-Ellison’s impact extends beyond her own research — she is actively shaping the future of medical treatment, education, and policy. Her dedication to scientific inquiry, patient care, and mentorship has established her as a leading figure in healthcare, making her contributions to Black history and the medical field invaluable.
Before embarking on her medical career, Dr. Bethel-Ellison was an Instructor of Physics for the Polk County School Board, where she inspired young minds in STEM education. Her commitment to mentorship continues as she actively supports the next generation of Black medical professionals, ensuring greater representation and leadership in the healthcare industry.
Dr. Bethel-Ellison’s contributions have been widely recognized through numerous awards and memberships in esteemed medical organizations, including:
· American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certified
· American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), Member
· American Society of Hematology (ASH), Member
· American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), Member
· Palm Beach Medical Society, Member
· Gamma Sigma Epsilon Chemistry Honor Society, Vice-President
Dr. Samantha Bethel-Ellison is a true trailblazer, breaking barriers in medicine, research, and education. As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor her dedication to improving patient care, advancing medical science, and paving the way for future generations of Black physicians and researchers. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to all who strive to make a difference in the world of healthcare.
