BALTIMORE — Dr. Joseph J. Costa, the Chief of Critical Care at Mercy Hospital in Baltimore died from COVID-19 this week.
The hospital released the tragic news in a statement to media outlets, and called Joseph "more than a trusted colleague; he was also a true friend to many."
"He dedicated his life and career to caring for the sickest patients. And when the pandemic came down upon us, Joe selflessly continued his work on the front lines — deeply committed to serving our patients and our City during this time of great need. His memory will live on as an example to us all," the hospital said in a statement.
Costa joined Mercy in 1997 and held the top position in the hospital's critical care unit since 2005. From 2010 to 2016 he served as an officer of the Mercy Medical Staff, culminating with his two-year tenure as President of the Medical Staff.
In an emotional statement the hospital released about his death, Mercy lauded Costa's bedside manner and how proud he was of being a part of the team at Mercy.
During a recent interview discussing the pandemic, he remarked about how proud he was to be a part of the Mercy family, expressing his love for his co-workers and his appreciation for all we are doing to care for our patients. He will be missed greatly, Mercy said in its statement.
Planning is underway now for a memorial service and details will be shared as soon as possible, said the hospital.