Dr. Melanie Beth Stein Etess, DO

After enduring a string of frustrating and disheartening attempts to diagnose and treat our 17-month-old daughter, who seemed trapped in a cycle of respiratory issues, we finally found our beacon of hope at Northwell Health. Our experience turned around dramatically when we met Dr. Melanie Stein-Etess, our exceptional emergency pediatrician. From the very first moment we encountered her, it was clear that we had discovered a remarkable physician: proficient, compassionate, and deeply knowledgeable. Dr. Stein-Etess approached our situation with both diligence and care, carefully assessing our daughter’s symptoms and history. She listened attentively to our concerns, acknowledging the despair we had faced over the preceding weeks. The thoroughness of her examination was palpable; she ordered a comprehensive array of tests, including an X-ray, determined to uncover the root cause of our child’s distress. Her methodical yet supportive approach gave us the reassurance we desperately… needed. Within a short time, Dr. Stein-Etess diagnosed our daughter with common respiratory viral infections—an immense relief compared to the more serious conditions we had feared. She provided a well-informed treatment plan that promised swift relief. Incredibly, within only a few hours of beginning her recommended care, we observed a noticeable improvement in our daughter’s condition. By the next day, we were astounded to see her practically back to her cheerful self, her laughter echoing through our home once again. Words cannot fully express our gratitude for Dr. Stein-Etess and the outstanding team surrounding her. Every member of the staff, particularly the nurses, exemplified excellence in care. Jennifer Kirschbaum, along with her colleagues, provided unwavering support and kindness, making our daughter feel safe and valued throughout her treatment. Even the cleaning personnel took the time to offer comforting words, making the hospital feel less intimidating and more like a place of healing. We were also touched by the thoughtful presence of the Ronald McDonald Foundation, which brought joy in small but meaningful ways—delivering goodies and coloring books that brightened our daughter's spirits during her stay. Their contributions added an extra layer of warmth to an already compassionate environment. In the end, it was not just the clinical expertise of Dr. Stein-Etess that made the difference; it was the collective kindness and compassion of everyone at Northwell that transformed a terrifying experience into one filled with hope and healing. We will be forever grateful for the care our daughter received, and we feel incredibly fortunate to have crossed paths with such a remarkable team dedicated to the well-being of their young patients.