Berlin Rehab & Healthcare’s Sabella honored with state-level ‘Excellence in Long-Term Care Administration Award’

Sabrina Sabella, administrator at Berlin Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center in Camden County, has been honored with the Health Care Association of New Jersey’s “Excellence in Long-Term Care Administration Award.” The standout administrator accepted the award this fall at HCANJ’s 75th Annual Convention in Atlantic City.

“Sabrina is well deserving of this prestigious award,” Alan Eserner, vice president of operations – New Jersey at Marquis Health Consulting Services, which supports Berlin, said. “Her steadfast dedication and unwavering commitment to staff retention and morale has transformed Berlin into a thriving, employee-centric environment — the impact has truly been profound. The facility has reduced turnover rates, created a stronger, more cohesive team and, most importantly, significantly increased patient and resident satisfaction.”

Sabella, who possesses 20 years of experience as a long-term care administrator, joined Berlin in November 2022. According to Eserner, Sabella worked hand-in-hand with Holly Tamburro, Berlin’s director of nursing, to eliminate the center’s reliance on agencies by developing and executing a multifaceted approach that included hiring, training and fostering a positive culture with staff. Central to their strategy was the creation of a Culture Committee, which organizes fun events, among other initiatives, aiming to ensure employees feel valued and supported.

“Studies have consistently shown that a positive employee culture directly impacts patient well-being and improves outcomes,” Marquis’ Kate Bauer, regional director of market development, said. “We thank Sabrina and Holly for their visionary leadership and congratulate Sabrina and her team on this honor.”

HCANJ’s annual “Excellence in Long-Term Care Administration Award” recognizes an individual who demonstrates outstanding leadership ability and has made a significant contribution to the profession. HCANJ is the largest trade organization representing long-term care providers in the Garden State; it is an affiliate of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living.

Located at 100 Long-A-Coming Lane in Berlin, the skilled nursing facility provides post-hospital care, short-term rehab and long-term residential care.