Prevention initiatives for children, adults and older adults.
Community health programs are designed to make wellness and prevention resources accessible right in your own community. Every member of your family can improve their health by eating well, getting regular checkups and vaccinations, and staying physically active. Healthier habits help your body handle the stress of recovering from an illness or injury. Some habits, like washing your hands regularly, can even reduce the chances of getting sick in the first place.
Community Health Programs
Longstanding initiatives have given us a head start on many community health improvement strategies encouraged by health care reform. Services provided by ECU Health hospitals include primary, secondary and tertiary prevention initiatives for the pediatric, adult and older adult populations. Find your local hospital below to discover programs offered in your area.
- East Carolina Injury Prevention Program
- Pediatric Asthma Program
- School Health Program
- Pitt Partners for Health
- Pitt Partners for Health (PPH) is a grassroots community health improvement coalition with representatives from the local faith community, community members and other health and social support organizations in Pitt County. The mission of PPH is to improve the population health of Pitt County through coalition building and partnership.
- Senior Services
- Older Adults are the fastest growing segment of the population, both nationally and locally. In recognition of the need to serve this important population, ECU Health Medical Center partners with community-based agencies to create special programs that identify and address senior health and social support needs, improve access to care, and enhance the quality of life for older adults.
- Health Screenings
- Screening services are offered at hospital-hosted events, community sites, schools, faith-based organizations and health fairs. Common screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and other evidence-based preventive assessments aligned with identified community health needs. Educational resources and referrals to primary care or specialty services are provided as appropriate to support continuity of care.
- HealThy Neighbor
- A faith-based health partnership between ECU Health and local churches, HealThy Neighbor is designed to support the health and wellness of congregations and the communities they serve. The program works alongside pastors and church leaders to provide practical health education, free biannual health screenings, wellness challenges, CPR/AED training and ongoing resources that fit naturally into church life.
- Health Hubs
- Health Hubs are community-based access points designed to connect individuals to essential health care services and supportive community resources. They bring health education, screenings, navigation support and referrals directly into neighborhoods.
- Barbers For Life
- Barbers for Life is a community-centered initiative that partners with local barbers, recognizing them as trusted voices within their neighborhoods. By engaging men in the familiar setting of the barbershop, the program delivers health education, resources and connections to care in an accessible and relatable way. Its mission is to foster open, supportive conversations around men’s physical and mental health, making these discussions natural and approachable.
- Community Health Screenings
- Screening services are offered at hospital-hosted events, community sites, workplaces, schools, faith-based organizations and health fairs. Common screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and other evidence-based preventive assessments aligned with identified community health needs. Educational resources and referrals to primary care or specialty services are provided as appropriate to support continuity of care.
- Bi-Monthly Free Breast Cancer Screenings
- ECU Health provides bi-monthly mammogram screening clinics for women age 40 and older who are uninsured and have not received a screening mammogram within the past year. Services are provided at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital to increase access to breast cancer screening and support early detection.
- Catch My Breath
- ECU Health Beaufort Hospital provides the Catch My Breath evidence-based youth vaping prevention program to seventh grade students in Beaufort County and surrounding areas. The program focuses on preventing initiation of e-cigarette and tobacco use through education on health risks, peer pressure resistance and informed decision-making. Programming is delivered in school-based or community settings in collaboration with local education partners.
- Health Hubs
- Health Hubs are community-based access points are designed to connect individuals to essential health care services and supportive community resources. They bring health education, screenings, navigation support and referrals directly into neighborhoods.
- HealThy Neighbor
- A faith-based health partnership between ECU Health and local churches, HealThy Neighbor is designed to support the health and wellness of congregations and the communities they serve. The program works alongside pastors and church leaders to provide practical health education, free biannual health screenings, wellness challenges, CPR/AED training and ongoing resources that fit naturally into church life.
- Community Health Screening
- Screening services are offered at hospital-hosted events, community sites, workplaces, schools, faith-based organizations and health fairs. Common screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and other evidence-based preventive assessments aligned with identified community health needs. Educational resources and referrals to primary care or specialty services are provided as appropriate to support continuity of care.
- Community Education
- Health awareness topics are presented to the community, senior centers, schools, churches, and businesses to help address chronic disease and prevention.
- Health Hubs
- Health Hubs are community-based access points designed to connect individuals to essential health care services and supportive community resources. They bring health education, screenings, navigation support and referrals directly into neighborhoods.
- HealThy Neighbor
- A faith-based health partnership between ECU Health and local churches, HealThy Neighbor is designed to support the health and wellness of congregations and the communities they serve. The program works alongside pastors and church leaders to provide practical health education, free biannual health screenings, wellness challenges, CPR/AED training and ongoing resources that fit naturally into church life.
- Teddy Bear Fair
- The Teddy Bear Fair concept makes learning interactive and fun. This engaging health education event is designed for young children, and each child receives a teddy bear, book and toothbrush kit. The children rotate through different stations and learn important health care tips along the way. Stations consist of: Safety, Hand Hygiene, Dental, Vital Signs, Nutrition, Stroke and Asthma.
- SRA (Sexual Risk Avoidance)
- This program educates teens on the health advantages of delayed sexual activity and empowers them to make the healthiest choices to reduce unplanned pregnancies and STDs, improving life outcomes for teens and their families.
- Catch My Breath
- Catch My Breath is an evidence-based youth vaping prevention program for grades 5-12 that has been proven to substantially reduce students’ likelihood of vaping. The program’s effectiveness was published in a peer-reviewed journal and the program is listed in SAMHSA’s Evidence-Based Resource Guide Series.
- Community Health Screening
- Screening services are offered at hospital-hosted events, community sites, workplaces, schools, faith-based organizations and health fairs. Common screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and other evidence-based preventive assessments aligned with identified community health needs. Educational resources and referrals to primary care or specialty services are provided as appropriate to support continuity of care.
- Community Education
- Health awareness topics are presented to the community, senior centers, schools, churches and businesses to help address chronic disease and prevention.
- Parkinson Support Group
- Monthly meetings offer meaningful resources and foster a sense of community for survivors and caregivers. Group sessions provide a safe and welcoming environment to share experiences, discover new coping strategies, and uplift one another. The support group is open to patients, caregivers and the public.
- Stroke Support Group
- Monthly meetings offer meaningful resources and foster a sense of community for survivors and caregivers. Group sessions provide a safe and welcoming environment to share experiences, discover new coping strategies and uplift one another.
- Skin Cancer Screening
- ECU Health offers free skin cancer screenings once a year to community members. Educational information and sunscreen samples are also provided during skin cancer screening events.
- Prostate Cancer Screening
- ECU Health offers free prostate cancer screenings and education once a year to community members. The screening consists of a free PSA blood test, brief examination and helpful information on prostate health.
- Teddy Bear Fair
- The Teddy Bear Fair concept makes learning interactive and fun. This engaging health education event is designed for young children, and each child receives a teddy bear, book and toothbrush kit. The children rotate through different stations and learn important health care tips along the way. Stations consist of: Safety, Hand Hygiene, Dental, Vital Signs, Nutrition, Stroke and Asthma.
- SRA (Sexual Risk Avoidance)
- The program educates teens on the health advantages of delayed sexual activity and empowers them to make the healthiest choices to reduce unplanned pregnancies and STDs, improving life outcomes for teens and their families.
- Catch My Breath
- Catch My Breath an evidence-based youth vaping prevention program for grades 5-12 that has been proven to substantially reduce students’ likelihood of vaping. The program’s effectiveness was published in a peer-reviewed journal and the program is listed in SAMHSA’s Evidence-Based Resource Guide Series.
- HealThy Neighbor
- A faith based health partnership between ECU Health and local churches, HealThy Neighbor is designed to support the health and wellness of congregations and the communities they serve. The program works alongside pastors and church leaders to provide practical health education, free biannual health screenings, wellness challenges, CPR/AED training and ongoing resources that fit naturally into church life.
- Hardware Store Tour for Skin Cancer Awareness
- This summer outreach effort—held each June and July—brings sun safety education directly to local hardware stores, meeting community members where they are. The program shares prevention tips, offers free adult wellness screenings and distributes resources to support early detection of skin cancer and other chronic conditions.
- Senior Health Education
- This monthly program is delivered at senior services centers within the service area and focuses on clear, easy to follow health education for older adults. Sessions use plain language, hands-on activities, and practical strategies to help seniors stay healthy, independent and informed about key wellness topics.
- The Great Colon Tour
- The Great Colon Tour uses a large, walk through inflatable colon to visually introduce community members to the stages of colorectal disease and the importance of early screening. The interactive format makes a complex topic approachable while encouraging adults 45+ to complete regular screenings and understand risk factors, symptoms and prevention steps.
- HealThy Neighbors
- A faith based health partnership between ECU Health and local churches, HealThy Neighbor is designed to support the health and wellness of congregations and the communities they serve. The program works alongside pastors and church leaders to provide practical health education, free biannual health screenings, wellness challenges, CPR/AED training and ongoing resources that fit naturally into church life.
- Health Hubs
- Community-based access points are designed to connect individuals to essential health care services and supportive community resources. They bring health education, screenings, navigation support and referrals directly into neighborhoods.
- Community Health Screenings
- Screening services are offered at hospital-hosted events, community sites, workplaces, schools, faith-based organizations and health fairs. Common screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and other evidence-based preventive assessments aligned with identified community health needs. Educational resources and referrals to primary care or specialty services are provided as appropriate to support continuity of care.
- Community Stroke Education Sessions
- Offered every second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m., Stroke Education Sessions are open to men and women of all ages, whether you are a recent survivor or have been on the journey for years. Caregivers and friends are also welcome. We provide emotional support, coping strategies, resources, guest speakers and educational sessions, and refreshments.
- Free Breast Cancer Screenings
- Free breast cancer screenings are available in Edgecombe County on Tuesdays and Thursdays at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital. Services are provided at no cost for women age 40 and older who have not had a mammogram in at least one year. Each screening includes a clinical breast exam and a 3D mammogram. Eligibility is confirmed during phone registration. To schedule an appointment, call 252-641-7375. Free mammograms are made possible through the generous support of Piggly Wiggly’s Central Business Office, Inc. of Pinetops.
- Free Breastfeeding Classes
- These informative and supportive sessions are led by ECU Health’s certified lactation specialists, who will provide evidence-based education, personalized guidance and helpful resources for those interested in breastfeeding. Topics include diets for new moms. Proper positioning, appropriate latch, hunger cues, milk storage and common difficulties. Refreshments are provided.
- Connections Cancer Support Group
- The Connections Cancer Support Group is held at ECU Health Cancer Care – Edgecombe and is open to men and women of all ages. Individuals with a new cancer diagnosis, cancer survivors, as well as caregivers and friends, are all welcome to attend. The group offers emotional support, coping strategies, access to resources, guest speakers, and educational sessions, along with light refreshments in a supportive and welcoming environment.
- Barbers For Life
- Barbers for Life is a community-centered initiative that partners with local barbers, recognizing them as trusted voices within their neighborhoods. By engaging men in the familiar setting of the barbershop, the program delivers health education, resources and connections to care in an accessible and relatable way. Its mission is to foster open, supportive conversations around men’s physical and mental health, making these discussions natural and approachable.
- Community Health Screenings
- Screening services are offered at hospital-hosted events, community sites, workplaces, schools, faith-based organizations and health fairs. Common screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and other evidence-based preventive assessments aligned with identified community health needs. Educational resources and referrals to primary care or specialty services are provided as appropriate to support continuity of care.
- HealThy Neighbor
- A faith-based health partnership between ECU Health and local churches, HealThy Neighbor is designed to support the health and wellness of congregations and the communities they serve. The program works alongside pastors and church leaders to provide practical health education, free biannual health screenings, wellness challenges, CPR/AED training and ongoing resources that fit naturally into church life.
- Health Hubs
- Health Hubs are community-based access points designed to connect individuals to essential health care services and supportive community resources. They bring health education, screenings, navigation support and referrals directly into neighborhoods.
- Community Health Screenings
- Screening services are offered at hospital-hosted events, community sites, workplaces, schools, faith-based organizations and health fairs. Common screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and other evidence-based preventive assessments aligned with identified community health needs. Educational resources and referrals to primary care or specialty services are provided as appropriate to support continuity of care.
- Vaping Prevention and Education
- This school-based education program delivers age-appropriate vaping prevention curriculum to students, focusing on the health risks of e-cigarette use and nicotine addiction. Interactive lessons encourage informed decision-making, build awareness of long-term health impacts and support schools in creating healthier, tobacco-free environments for youth.
- Health Care Career Education
- Through participation in local school career fairs, this program introduces students to a wide range of health care careers and pathways. Team members share firsthand experiences, educational requirements, and workforce opportunities, helping students explore future careers in health care and better understand the role of the hospital within the community.
- Hospital Tours and Education Workshops
- Designed for high school student groups, this program provides guided hospital tours and interactive education workshops that highlight clinical departments, support services and health care operations. The experience offers students real-world exposure to health care settings while encouraging interest in health-related careers and workforce development.
- HealThy Neighbor
- A faith-based health partnership between ECU Health and local churches, HealThy Neighbor is designed to support the health and wellness of congregations and the communities they serve. The program works alongside pastors and church leaders to provide practical health education, free biannual health screenings, wellness challenges, CPR/AED training and ongoing resources that fit naturally into church life.
- Health Hubs
- Health Hubs are community-based access points designed to connect individuals to essential health care services and supportive community resources. They bring health education, screenings, navigation support and referrals directly into neighborhoods.
- Community Health Screenings
- Screening services are offered at hospital-hosted events, community sites, workplaces, schools, faith-based organizations and health fairs. Common screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and other evidence-based preventive assessments aligned with identified community health needs. Educational resources and referrals to primary care or specialty services are provided as appropriate to support continuity of care.
- HealThy Neighbor
- A faith based health partnership between ECU Health and local churches, HealThy Neighbor is designed to support the health and wellness of congregations and the communities they serve. The program works alongside pastors and church leaders to provide practical health education, free biannual health screenings, wellness challenges, CPR/AED training and ongoing resources that fit naturally into church life.
- Health Hubs
- Health Hubs are community-based access points designed to connect individuals to essential health care services and supportive community resources. They bring health education, screenings, navigation support and referrals directly into neighborhoods.
- Community Health Screenings
- Screening services are offered at hospital-hosted events, community sites, workplaces, schools, faith-based organizations and health fairs. Common screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and other evidence-based preventive assessments aligned with identified community health needs. Educational resources and referrals to primary care or specialty services are provided as appropriate to support continuity of care.
- Education, Support and Community Events
- Outer Banks Health provides and supports education classes and programs as well as community events throughout the year.
- ThriveOBX
- ThriveOBX is igniting a movement for well-being, connection and longevity. The program’s mission is to inspire Outer Banks residents and visitors with the tools, programs and information to live with purpose, energy and joy, creating a culture where everyone thrives.
- HealThy Neighbor
- A faith-based health partnership between ECU Health and local churches, HealThy Neighbor is designed to support the health and wellness of congregations and the communities they serve. The program works alongside pastors and church leaders to provide practical health education, free biannual health screenings, wellness challenges, CPR/AED training and ongoing resources that fit naturally into church life.
Pitt Partners for Health (PPH)
Pitt Partners for Health (PPH) is a grassroots community health improvement coalition with representatives from the local faith community, community members and other health and social support organizations in Pitt County. The mission of PPH is to improve the population health of Pitt County through coalition building and partnership.
Since its inception in 1995, several community health initiatives have been developed and implemented through the work of this grassroots organization in Pitt County. Specific action teams formed around priority areas established through the triennial CHNA process.
In 2025, PPH approved the following health priorities with corresponding action teams to address these areas:
- Access to Care: Health Care Access and Quality
- Healthy Lifestyles: Chronic Disease Prevention and Management; Food Access and Security
- Mental Health/Substance Abuse
PPH meets the second Thursday of each month (except July) at 9 a.m. in person or via Zoom. For more information about Pitt Partners for Health, please call 252-847-0550 or visit the PPH website for the meeting calendar.
ECU Health Medical Center is the administrative agency for Pitt Partners for Health and serves as the fiduciary for the Healthy People Healthy Carolinas initiative funded by The Duke Endowment.
Programs include:
- Exercise is Medicine
- Walk Wise NC
- Kids in Parks TRACK Trail
- Dining with a Doc
- Penny Pinchers – Healthy Grocery Store Tours
- Healthy Food Outreach
- Walking Trails
- Know It Control It
Senior Services
Older Adults are the fastest growing segment of the population, both nationally and locally. In recognition of the need to serve this important population, ECU Health Medical Center partners with community-based agencies to create special programs that identify and address senior health and social support needs, improve access to care, and enhance the quality of life for older adults.
The Senior Services program assists those aged 55 or older lead healthier, more independent lives. Services include:
- Health and social support education unique to needs of seniors
- Chronic disease screening and referral
- Dementia Friendly Initiative
- Alzheimer’s support group facilitation
- Monthly GoldPath Senior’s Program (Third Thursday of each month at 10 a.m.)
- Medicare counseling and Part D enrollment
- Resources for caregivers
- Advanced care planning support
- Fire and fall prevention awareness
- Monthly GoldPath newsletter
For more information about Senior Services, please call 252-847-0550.
School Health Program
Children and adolescents can experience a wide range of issues – physical, social, emotional and behavioral – impacting their ability to participate and be successful in school. School Health Program nurses employed by ECU Health Medical Center work with pre-K through 12th grade students in Pitt County Schools to help students, parents and teachers manage these challenges and improve student health and academic performance. They do this by coordinating programs that promote good health among students and team members as well as providing case management services to students with chronic and complex medical needs.
Activities include:
- Assessment of student and team members health needs
- Assistance with access to medical, vision and dental care
- Coordination of care for students with chronic health issues, including development of health plans and emergency action plans
- Collaboration between the school and health care providers
- Assistance with transitioning students back to school following serious illness or injury
- Management of the medication administration process
- Participation in 504 and Individualized Education Programs for health issues
- Provision of health-related counseling and education
- Coordination of educational programs on disease and injury prevention
Hospital nurses, physicians, community health providers, families, school staff and students may make referrals to the program. For more information about the School Health Program, please call 252-847-6576.