The Eastern Healthcare Preparedness Coalition (EHPC) at ECU Health, in partnership with the Southeastern Healthcare Preparedness Region in Wilmington and the North Carolina Public Health Preparedness and Response Eastern Regional Office, hosted the North Carolina Disaster Symposium for the ninth time. This two-day conference brought together over 200 professionals to discuss and share insights on disaster management, including preparation, mitigation, response and recovery.
“As disaster preparedness evolves, events like these are crucial in equipping professionals with the tools and connections needed to protect their communities,” said Chris Starbuck, director of Emergency Management at ECU Health. “We are proud to be able to organize and host events like these that help people prepare for disasters and connect professionals around the region with the resources they may need. The continued success of the North Carolina Disaster Symposium reflects the dedication and expertise of the organizers and participants alike, including a large contingent from ECU Health.”
The North Carolina Disaster Symposium has become an annual statewide event, attracting experts from across the country. Attendees represent a diverse range of sectors, including hospitals, emergency medical services (EMS), public health, long-term care and emergency management staff. The symposium featured thought-provoking presentations, covering topics such as lessons learned from Hurricane Helene, strategies for hospitals to manage the critical first 30 minutes of a disaster and resources available within North Carolina during declared disasters.
The symposium provided a platform for attendees to gain valuable insights and connect with their peers.
“The Disaster Symposium gave me real world experiences and lessons learned that I can take back to my home base,” said Katelynn Moore, a nurse and member of ECU Health Edgecombe’s Emergency Management. “It was an amazing experience to hear about different disasters across North Carolina and beyond and to network with those around us that you may not get to know otherwise or until you are in the middle of a disaster.”
This year’s symposium not only highlighted critical issues but also fostered collaboration and innovative thinking, strengthening the ability of professionals across sectors to respond effectively to disasters. By sharing lessons learned and building strong networks, the event underscored the importance of teamwork and shared knowledge in ensuring resilient communities.
“I have found significant value in attending the North Carolina Disaster Symposium as it helps bring new ideas, perspectives and great story telling about real life crisis events that have happened throughout our state,” said Brian White, executive director of operations, ECU Health Chowan and ECU Health Bertie hospitals. “We have learned best practices at previous gatherings that we have incorporated and applied at our facilities. In addition to great learning, the networking is equally important as you meet colleagues and others that we can call on when needed.”
To learn more about EHPC or get in contact, please visit easternhpc.com