Fourth Annual EMS at the OBX Conference: A Collaborative Learning Experience for First Responders
On October 9, 2024, the scenic backdrop of Jennette’s Pier served as the perfect setting for the fourth annual “EMS at the OBX” conference, which drew nearly 100 first responders from across North Carolina and Virginia. Organized in conjunction with the College of the Albemarle and Dare County, this event highlighted the importance of continuous education and networking among emergency medical service (EMS) professionals.
Walter Meads, the EMS program coordinator at the College of the Albemarle, emphasized that the conference offers approximately 14 hours of invaluable continuing education credits. This year, the event welcomed participants from East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine and ECU Health Medical Center for the first time, enhancing the hands-on learning experience with a mobile healthcare simulation unit. This innovative resource allows first responders to practice and refine their skills in controlled, realistic scenarios without the pressure of real-life emergencies.
Erika Greene, the pediatric trauma program manager at ECU Health Medical Center, explained the significance of these simulations. “It’s such an amazing opportunity to run through a scenario that you may see in real life, but in a safe space,” she remarked. This hands-on approach enables EMS providers to build confidence and competence in situations they may encounter in the field, ultimately fostering better patient outcomes.
While gaining practical skills is a vital aspect of the conference, networking with fellow first responders is equally important. Jennie Collins, chief of Dare EMS and MedFlight, described the collaborative nature of EMS work: “EMS is very much a team effort… Everybody is there for the benefit of the patient.” The ability to forge connections and share experiences fosters a positive community among providers, enhancing cooperation in emergency responses both in the classroom and on the scene.
Collins also addressed Dare County EMS’s efforts in the wake of Hurricane Helene, which affected western North Carolina recently. Teams from the area were deployed for four-day missions to assist communities grappling with the aftermath of the storm. Collins expressed the emotional and logistical challenges faced by first responders during such catastrophic events, underscoring the vital role that support from other agencies plays in aiding recovery efforts.
“The devastation that’s occurred will forever change some of the landscapes out there,” Collins noted. She added that providing relief to overwhelmed local agencies is crucial not only for operational continuity but also for improving the mental health of first responders who endure stress during such crises. By allowing local responders to take a breather, the Dare County team helps ensure that they can attend to their own needs and recover from the demands of their roles.
In light of the ongoing challenges in western North Carolina, the gathering at the EMS at the OBX conference also served as a reminder of the importance of community and collaboration in the EMS field. For those in attendance, it was more than just a conference—it was also an opportunity to foster relationships that will enhance their capacity to respond to emergencies and better support their communities.
This year’s “EMS at the OBX” conference has proven once again to be a significant milestone for first responders, reinforcing the critical skills and partnerships needed to navigate the complexities of emergency medical service.