In the beginning of 2022, ECU Health faced numerous challenges as it launched amidst the surge of the Omicron variant of the pandemic. Dr. Armistead, who reflected on this period, described it as the most difficult month of the pandemic, leading to the worst quarter in health care finances and eventually the worst fiscal year for health care. Despite these hardships, Dr. Armistead highlighted that ECU Health has evolved into a dynamic and positive place focused on improving the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina.
Dr. Armistead emphasized that ECU Health’s community-focused approach was crucial in overcoming the pandemic. He noted that the system is now directing its partnerships towards addressing chronic disease in the region with a strategic focus on tactical solutions. Hickey, on the other hand, highlighted ECU Health’s outreach efforts towards vulnerable populations in its 29-county region served by ECU Health. He acknowledged various social determinants of health challenges faced by community members and stressed that partnerships are essential to establish connections and facilitate access to healthcare for individuals in need.
Hickey pointed out how factors such as transportation and access to food have a significant impact on health outcomes. He stated that ECU Health has implemented measures to ensure patients are reached where they are. The experience of COVID-19 has reinforced how essential it is to address these issues more impactfully.
In conclusion, despite facing numerous challenges during its launch period amidst the pandemic surge, ECU Health has grown into a dynamic and positive place dedicated to enhancing health outcomes for eastern North Carolina residents through community partnerships and strategic interventions aimed at tackling chronic disease burden in vulnerable populations while addressing social determinants of health challenges like transportation and access to food.
