I love talking to guests on the podcast. These latest episodes are no exception, featuring guests who surprised and inspired me with insights into heath and healthcare related topics. You will discover how oxygen and VO2 Max place a huge role in bioregulation, how a natural body products company goes from kitchen to nationwide distribution through a world pandemic, what it is like to provide education, care and support to empower young at-risk mothers, and how healthcare is changing in a world of virtual visits and intelligent agents.
Northwest AHEC is once again bringing together pediatric experts, clinicians, and care teams for one of its most anticipated annual events — the Practical Pediatrics Conference 2026, held March 27–28, 2026, at Wake Forest University’s Bridger Field House in Winston-Salem, NC. REGISTER NOW
Designed for pediatricians, family medicine physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses, this two‑day CME event focuses on the latest clinical updates, practical strategies, and emerging issues in pediatric care.
Why Attend?
Pediatric care continues to evolve rapidly, and staying current on best practices is essential for providers who care for infants, children, and adolescents. This conference delivers:
- Evidence‑based clinical updates
- A diverse lineup of pediatric subspecialists
- Case‑based, practical sessions
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary learning
- In‑person networking at a premier venue
The event provides actionable knowledge designed to be implemented immediately in clinical practice.
Conference Highlights
📅 Day 1 — Friday, March 27, 2026
The first day begins with registration and a continental breakfast, followed by a full schedule of high‑impact presentations:
Key Sessions:
- Tackling Renal Anomalies Seen on Prenatal Ultrasounds
Gregory Gorman, MD - Clinical Immunology for the General Pediatrician
Benjamin Stewart‑Bates, MD - Hormonal Therapy for Bleeding Control & Contraception in Complex Medical Cases
Amanda Blair, MD; Shaketha Gray, MD; Giya Harry, MD - Mucus Unplugged: Airway Clearance & Supportive Technology
Jordan Fett, MD - Tiny Tubes: Complications, Care & Common Questions
Lara Arrendondo, NP; Julie Kerth, PNP; Megyn Sebesta, DO - Tics and Stereotypies
Jaclyn Martindale, MD - Distinguishing Neurologic Disorders from Benign Events
Robert Goodrich, MD - POTS Is a Four‑Letter Word! Cardiologist’s Approach to Orthostatic Intolerance
Matthew Hazle, MD - Vaccine Hesitancy: Scope and Implications
Adam Blatt, MD
📅 Day 2 — Saturday, March 28, 2026
Day two begins with breakfast, leading into sessions centered on evidence‑based practice and complex care topics:
Key Sessions:
- Evidence‑Based Ways to Promote Vaccine Uptake
Adam Blatt, MD - Cerebral Palsy: A Current Approach to an Ancient Disorder
Matthew Martin, MD - Practical Office‑Based Hematology
Tom McLean, MD - Navigating Gender Identity Development & Trauma: A Child Abuse Pediatrician’s Approach
Meggan Goodpasture, MD
Venue & Travel Details
The Practical Pediatrics Conference 2026 will be held at:
Wake Forest University – Bridger Field House
499 Deacon Blvd., Winston‑Salem, NC 27105
Hotel Accommodations
A discounted room block has been secured at:
The Historic Brookstown Inn – Trademark Collection by Wyndham
200 Brookstown Ave, Winston‑Salem, NC 27101
Phone: 336‑701‑3904
Group Name: Wake Forest Pediatrics Conference
Attendees should mention the group name to receive the conference rate.
Who Should Attend
This CME event is ideal for:
- Pediatricians
- Family medicine physicians
- Physician assistants
- Nurse practitioners
- Nurses
- Clinicians who provide pediatric care in outpatient or acute settings
The curriculum is tailored to provide practical, ready‑to‑use clinical knowledge for those working with children at all developmental stages.
Join Us in 2026
The Practical Pediatrics Conference remains one of Northwest AHEC’s signature educational experiences—bringing together leading specialists and dedicated care providers to share insights that elevate pediatric health outcomes.
Register now to secure your seat and stay at the forefront of pediatric practice.
12th Annual HPB GI Oncology Symposium Brings Experts Together to Advance Care for Complex GI Cancers
On November 21, 2025, the Atrium Health Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Center hosted the 12th Annual HepatoPancreatoBiliary (HPB) GI Oncology Symposium at the Bowman Gray Center for Medical Education. This multidisciplinary event brought together 74 clinicians and learners—including physicians, nurses, advanced practice providers, residents, fellows, and students—to explore the latest advances in the treatment and management of HPB malignancies.
A Premier Educational Event Focused on Innovation in HPB Cancer Care
The symposium continues to serve as a key educational forum for providers who care for patients with pancreatic, liver, biliary, and other complex GI cancers. The conference agenda highlighted cutting-edge research, evolving clinical techniques, and collaborative approaches to care.
Keynote Address: Systemic Therapy for Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
The day opened with a highly anticipated keynote delivered by Philip Philip, MD, a nationally recognized GI medical oncologist from the Henry Ford Cancer Institute.
Dr. Philip provided an insightful update on systemic therapy for advanced pancreatic cancer, discussing emerging evidence, therapeutic sequencing, and the evolving landscape of precision-based care. His expertise set the tone for a day focused on innovation and multidisciplinary strategies.
Expert Presentations from the Atrium Health Wake Forest GI Oncology Team
Members of the Atrium Health Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Center’s GI Oncology and Surgical Oncology programs delivered a series of presentations spotlighting both clinical and research advances across the HPB spectrum. Topics included:
- Hepatic Arterial Infusion (HAI) Therapy for colorectal liver metastases and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
- Systemic Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
- Advances in PET Imaging for Pancreatic Cancer
- Robotic Whipple Procedure and surgical innovation in pancreatic cancer
- Precision Medicine Using Pancreatic Cancer Organoids, highlighting the promise of tailored treatment approaches
These sessions underscored the institution’s commitment to advancing the standard of care through leading-edge science, technology, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
A Growing Community Committed to Progress
The strong turnout at this year’s program reflects a growing regional and national interest in HPB oncology. Attendees engaged in thoughtful case discussions, networked with colleagues across specialties, and gained new perspectives on how to tackle some of the most challenging cancers.
As one of the region’s premier HPB-focused educational events, the symposium continues to foster a community of clinicians committed to improving outcomes for patients facing complex GI malignancies.
Looking Ahead: Save the Date for 2026
Planning is already underway for the 13th Annual HPB GI Oncology Symposium, scheduled for November 2026 (exact date to be announced).
More details will be shared in the coming months, and we look forward to welcoming an even larger audience next year.
Celebrating Healthcare Continuing Education Professionals Day
January 23, 2026
Today, we proudly celebrate Healthcare Continuing Education Professionals Day™, honoring the individuals who ensure healthcare providers remain informed, skilled, and prepared to deliver exceptional care.
At the Northwest Area Health Education Center (Northwest AHEC) and Office of Continuing Medical Education (OCME) of Wake Forest University School of Medicine, our continuing education professionals play a vital role in supporting lifelong learning. They design and deliver high‑quality, evidence-based programs that strengthen patient care and elevate healthcare across our communities.
This work is fueled by strong partnerships - across health systems, academic institutions, professional associations, and community organizations. These collaborations allow us to create meaningful educational experiences that meet the needs of today’s healthcare workforce.
When we asked our partners to describe Northwest AHEC/OCME in one word, three themes rose above the rest:
Collaboration. Commitment. Excellence.
Today, we also celebrate our exceptional team - many of whom bring decades of experience to their roles. Their dedication, expertise, and service continue to shape healthcare education across our region.
Northwest AHEC / OCME Service Milestones
(Years of service as of 2026)
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✨ Their dedication strengthens every program we develop, every partnership we nurture, and every learner we support.
Learn more about our full team:
https://go.northwestahec.wakehealth.edu/staff
Northwest AHEC and the Office of Continuing Medical Education collaborate with state and local health associations, universities and community colleges, and hospitals and community organizations to serve constituents in the Northwest AHEC 17-county region and across the state. We offer educational activities designed to enhance knowledge and refresh clinical and professional skills.
--> Please take about 5 minutes to complete this needs assessment.
We value your feedback and planning for future activities will be based on your input, survey deadline is January 28th.
Professional growth doesn’t wait, and neither should you! Northwest Area Health Education Center (Northwest AHEC) and the Office of Continuing Medical Education at Wake Forest University School of Medicine are committed to helping healthcare professionals stay ahead with a wide range of dynamic programs throughout the year.
Whether you prefer the energy of in-person training or the flexibility of live webinars, we’ve got options designed to fit your schedule and your goals. Explore our upcoming events and take the next step in advancing your knowledge and skills.
Don’t miss out - register today and secure your spot!
Stay tuned for more updates on programs that will keep you informed, inspired, and ready for what’s next.
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- 2026 Spring NC Lactation Educator Training - 1/5-4/22
- 20th Annual Breast Cancer Symposium - 1/16
- Atrium Health Sanger Heart Vascular Institute Cardiovascular Symposium - 1/16
- 40th Annual Northwest AHEC Respiratory Care Conference - 2/25–2/26
- 17th Annual NC "One Community in Recovery" Conference - 3/4-3/6
- 14th Annual Breastfeeding Forum – 3/10
- Nurturing the Nurturers: A Retreat For Sustaining Healthcare Well-being – 3/20
- 2026 NC Annual STI Update - 3/26 (Save the Date)
- 2026 Western Death Investigation Conference - 3/28
- 14th Annual WF UNC Duke Anesthesiology Conference - 4/25
- Basic Fetal Monitoring Spring 2026 - 4/29
- Summer Interpreter Series - Wednesdays, 5/6-27, and 5/28
- High Risk Newborn Sharing the Care 2026 - 5/13
- Aging Well Conference 2026 - 5/14
- WFUSM Summer Radiology Review - 6/8
- Check out our Full Course Catalog
- Enduring Online Learning from Northwest AHEC: Earn CE credits on your schedule - Busy schedule? No problem! Northwest AHEC offers **enduring online learning** designed for your lifestyle. Whether it’s early morning coffee or winding down at night, our self-paced courses are available 24/7-no compromises on quality! Read More
Register Today!
These programs offer valuable opportunities for professional growth and continuing education. Whether you're a physician, nurse, allied health professional, or medical educator, there's something for you. Secure your spot today and stay at the forefront of healthcare education!
March 20, 2026
9AM - 4:30PM
Graylyn International Conference Center
1900 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem, NC
Join us for a transformative retreat designed specifically for healthcare professionals who devote themselves to caring for others. Nurturing the Nurturers: A Retreat for Sustaining Healthcare Well-Being is an opportunity to pause, recharge, and prioritize your own well-being.
Through expert-led sessions, interactive activities, and restorative practices, you’ll gain tools to prevent burnout, foster resilience, and sustain your passion for caregiving. Don’t miss this chance to reconnect with yourself and your purpose while learning strategies to thrive in your professional and personal life. Reserve your spot today and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced you.
Agenda details are up, check it out.
Available Credits:
• 6.25 Contact (category A) CE for NC Psychologists Hours
This program will provide 6.25 contact hours of (Category A) continuing education for North Carolina psychologists. No partial credit will be given.
• 6.25 Contact Hours from Northwest AHEC
6.25 Contact Hours from Northwest AHEC
• 6.25 NBCC Hours
6.25 NBCC Contact Hours. Northwest AHEC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 5465. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Northwest AHEC is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.
• 6.25 Nursing Contact Hours
6.25 Nursing Contact Hours. Northwest AHEC is approved as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the North Carolina Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
Session Fees:
- $175.00 - Registration Fee per person
- $160.00 - Registration fee per person when 3 or more registering together
As we kick off 2026 with gratitude for our partners, learners, and community members, we’re excited to share the latest updates from the Northwest Area Health Education Center (NWAHEC) and the Wake Forest University School of Medicine Office of Continuing Medical Education (OCME).
Our first Northwest AHEC e‑Newsletter of 2026 is live! 🎉
Inside you’ll find updates on:
🔹 New programs and training opportunities
🔹 Continuing education from the Wake Forest University School of Medicine OCME
🔹 Workforce development initiatives across our region
🔹 Community engagement highlights
🔹 Upcoming events and ways to get involved
Start the year informed and inspired — explore all the latest here:
👉 https://go.northwestahec.wakehealth.edu/newstostart2026
As we step into 2026, Northwest AHEC extends heartfelt thanks to all our partners, learners, and community members who helped make 2025 a year of meaningful progress and shared accomplishments. Your dedication to improving health education, strengthening our workforce, and supporting the well‑being of our communities continues to inspire us. We look forward to another year of collaboration, innovation, and impact. Together, we will continue advancing education, expanding opportunities, and supporting the healthcare professionals and students who make a difference every day across our region. Wishing you a healthy, hopeful, and productive year ahead.
Happy New Year from all of us at Northwest AHEC - here’s to an outstanding 2026! 💙
As we enter 2026, the Northwest Area Health Education Center (NWAHEC) and our partners across the Health Talent Alliance are excited to launch the year with two collaborative events designed to strengthen healthcare education, workforce development, and employer–educator partnerships across our region.
These initiatives bring together leaders from healthcare, education, and workforce sectors to advance shared priorities - and continue building a robust talent pipeline for North Carolina’s future.
1. Upcoming Joint Meeting: NWAHEC CCEP & Employer and Educator Collaborative
January 20, 2026 | Virtual
Audience: Healthcare employers & educational partners
The NWAHEC Consortium for Clinical Education and Practice (CCEP) and the NWAHEC Employer and Educator Collaborative will host a joint virtual meeting to open the year with discussion, updates, and shared learning across the healthcare and education landscape.
This meeting offers participating organizations the opportunity to:
- Hear updates on clinical education and workforce development initiatives
- Share what’s happening within their systems, schools, and communities
- Learn about emerging trends shaping healthcare practice and talent needs
- Strengthen connections between employers and academic institutions
👉 Join the meeting: Click here to join the meeting
Meeting ID: 233 234 490 312 03 / Passcode: U2Qg2Hh3
We look forward to your participation and continued collaboration as we work together to support the region’s healthcare workforce.
2. Northwest Healthcare Accelerator: Strengthening Apprenticeships & Pre‑Apprenticeships
February 4, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Davidson-Davie Community College, Mary E. Rittling Conference Center
297 DCC Road, Thomasville, NC 27360
Lunch provided - REGISTER NOW
The Northwest Healthcare Accelerator is a new, high-impact event designed to help our region expand high‑quality healthcare apprenticeship and pre‑apprenticeship pathways.
This Accelerator will bring together secondary and post-secondary educators, healthcare employers, and workforce partners for a day of learning, collaboration, and program planning.
Participants will:
- Explore best practices for developing healthcare pre‑apprenticeships and youth registered apprenticeships
- Learn directly from employers successfully implementing these models
- Hear from local school districts and community colleges on how programs are structured
- Participate in a working session to begin designing pathways tailored to community workforce needs
Who should attend?
Healthcare employers, university and community college partners, K–12 administrators, CTE leaders, workforce board representatives, and other industry stakeholders committed to growing locally trained talent.
This event is hosted in partnership with:
- NC Business Committee for Education (NCBCE)
- MyFutureNC
- Northwest Area Health Education Center (AHEC)
- Piedmont AHEC
- South Piedmont AHEC
👉 Reserve your spot today: https://unc.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bpFmtsyBRbTNznM
Strengthening North Carolina’s Healthcare Talent Pipeline - Together
Both of these events reflect our region’s deep commitment to collaboration and innovation in healthcare workforce development. By aligning employers, educators, and community partners, we are building sustainable pathways that prepare learners, support employers, and strengthen healthcare delivery across Northwest North Carolina.
We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming events and to another year of meaningful partnership.
If you have questions or would like additional information, please feel free to reach out - and don’t forget to share these opportunities with colleagues who may benefit from attending.
As the year comes to a close, we reflect with gratitude on the partnerships that have helped us grow and serve our communities. Thank you for your continued support. Wishing you peace, joy, and a bright New Year.
SINCERELY,
Northwest Area Health Education Center (NWAHEC) and the Wake Forest University School of Medicine Office of Continuing Medical Education (OCME)
Staff Photo taken at Wally’s Service Station, Mount Airy, NC (Surry County)
We invite you to explore our 2024–2025 Annual Report. Visit nwahec.org/AR to view and download the report.
To stay connected with us throughout the year, visit our blog at nwahec.org/blog.
