Bridgeport Nurse Practitioner Honored with 2026 Future of Healthcare Award

The Greater Bridgeport Medical Association (GBMA) has announced that a Bridgeport nurse practitioner has been selected to receive a 2026 Future of Healthcare Award, recognizing outstanding healthcare professionals under age 40 who are making a meaningful impact through leadership, innovation, service, and dedication to improving healthcare in the Greater Bridgeport region.

Michael DeMasi, DNP, FNP-BC, APRN, a founding member of Sage Healthcare, is being recognized for his leadership in providing free, high-quality healthcare to underserved individuals throughout the Greater Bridgeport community.

Since helping establish Sage Healthcare in 2021 alongside Dr. Irene Bihl, Michael has played a key role in building a community-based clinic dedicated to removing barriers to care. Guided by the motto, "No Cost, No Barriers, Just Healthcare," Sage Healthcare provides primary care, preventive services, and behavioral health support to patients through its partnership with the Bridgeport Rescue Mission. Under his leadership, the clinic has expanded its reach significantly while working with volunteers and university partners to provide thousands of hours of care each year.

Michael was nominated by Sally Gerard, Fairfield University's Academic Partner for Sage Healthcare, who submitted his nomination in recognition of his extraordinary commitment to serving Bridgeport's underserved residents. In her nomination, Gerard highlighted Michael's leadership, his role as a mentor and clinical preceptor for nursing students from several universities, and his unwavering dedication to expanding healthcare services for vulnerable populations.

"Dr. DeMasi exemplifies the selfless work of healthcare professionals," said John Brannelly, Executive Director of the Greater Bridgeport Medical Association. "His unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Bridgeport's most vulnerable residents is truly inspiring."

Michael will be honored during the inaugural Future of Healthcare Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Fairchild Wheeler Golf Course in Fairfield. The event will celebrate healthcare professionals who are helping shape the future of medicine and improve the health of communities throughout the Greater Bridgeport region.

All are welcome to purchase tickets to attend the dinner program and help celebrate this year's honorees. Information about tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and the Future of Healthcare Awards is available at GBMedical.org.

The Future of Healthcare Awards recognize exceptional physicians, nurses, advanced practice providers, community health workers, dental professionals, and other healthcare professionals whose leadership and service are making a lasting difference in the communities they serve.