Northwest AHEC invites you to join us for The High Risk Newborn: Sharing the Care 2026, a half‑day live webinar designed to strengthen your expertise in caring for high‑risk infants. This program brings together evidence‑based practices, real‑world insights, and interdisciplinary perspectives to help you provide the highest level of care to newborns and families who need it most.
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Today, as part of NC AHEC’s Future Health Professionals Week, Northwest AHEC is shining a light on one of the most pressing issues affecting our state: the critical shortage of healthcare workers, especially in rural and underserved communities. This growing crisis touches all of us — our families, our neighbors, and the communities we serve every day.
🚨 A Statewide Healthcare Workforce Emergency
Across North Carolina, the shortage of healthcare professionals has reached a level that threatens access to timely, high‑quality care. A statewide report from September 2025 showed:
- Nearly one‑third of all Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) positions remain unfilled, stretching teams thin and limiting care options.
- 13% of Registered Nurse (RN) roles are vacant, contributing to longer wait times and increased pressure on existing staff.
- By 2033, North Carolina is projected to face a shortfall of at least 12,500 RNs, with the possibility of an even larger gap as burnout and early retirements accelerate.
These shortages are not theoretical — they affect daily operations in clinics, long-term care facilities, hospitals, home health, and community-based organizations.
📍 The Crisis Is Deeply Felt in the Northwest AHEC Region
Findings from the 2025 Health Talent Alliance (HTA) Supply and Demand Profile show that the gap between workforce supply and demand is particularly concerning in the Northwest AHEC region:
- The region must annually recruit or graduate 1,010 RNs, yet only 690 new RNs enter the workforce — a deficit of 320 each year.
- LPN supply also falls short, with demand for 220 LPNs annually but only 130 newly credentialed individuals — a deficit of 90.
- Churn rates — the rate at which employees leave and must be replaced — are extremely high:
- 88% for LPNs
- 115% for CNAs
These numbers illustrate the instability employers face as they try to rebuild and retain their care teams.
Together, these indicators paint a picture of a workforce under strain — and the ripple effects can be seen throughout the region’s health systems.
🌟 Community Health Workers: A Critical Part of the Solution
As traditional healthcare roles grow harder to recruit and retain, Community Health Workers (CHWs) are emerging as essential connectors in the healthcare ecosystem.
CHWs support communities by:
- Bridging the gap between clinical care and everyday life
- Increasing health literacy and supporting chronic disease management
- Connecting individuals to social drivers of health, including housing, food access, and transportation
- Reducing preventable ER visits and hospital readmissions
Beyond their impact, the return on investment is substantial: for every $1 invested in CHWs, there is an estimated $11.20 return in improved outcomes and cost savings.
In a region where healthcare vacancies are mounting, CHWs strengthen access, reduce burdens on clinical teams, and help keep communities healthier.
🎓 Pathways to Becoming a Community Health Worker
If you or someone you know is exploring a meaningful career in healthcare — one that makes a direct and lasting difference in the community — the CHW pathway is a powerful place to start.
📌 CHW Certification Information
Learn about North Carolina’s certification process:
https://ncchwa.org/services/certification/
📌 How NC AHEC Supports CHWs
Explore AHEC’s statewide CHW initiatives, training, and resources:
https://www.ncahec.net/practice-support/community-health-worker-program-2/
💙 Moving Forward Together
The workforce shortages facing North Carolina — and especially the Northwest AHEC region — require strong partnerships, innovative solutions, and continued investment across all parts of the healthcare pipeline. Community Health Workers are a vital part of this strategy, helping ensure that all communities, particularly those in rural and underserved areas, receive the care and support they need.
As we celebrate Future Health Professionals Week, we honor those who are stepping into these critical roles and shaping the future of healthcare across our region.
Northwest AHEC invites you to join us for an engaging and practical live webinar:
Get a strong start in your perinatal nursing career with our live webinar Fetal Monitoring Basics course, designed specifically for nurses with less than one year of experience using electronic fetal monitoring (EFM). Led by experienced educator Tammy J. Goodwin, DNP, RNC-OB, C-EFM, this hands-on, knowledge-based training will equip you with foundational skills in fetal heart rate interpretation, NICHD monitoring definitions, antenatal testing, and effective interdisciplinary communication. Join us at Wake Forest Biotech Place in Winston-Salem and earn 5.0 nursing contact hours while building your confidence in fetal monitoring. Group rates available, bring your colleagues and save!
This past weekend, our Northwest AHEC Scholars joined peers from across the state at the 3rd Annual NC AHEC Emerging Leaders in Healthcare Conference in Greenville, NC - a powerful three‑day experience designed to inspire, educate, and equip North Carolina’s future healthcare workforce.
Hosted by Eastern AHEC and Area L AHEC, the event focused on this year’s theme:
“Glowing Forward: Illuminating the Future of Healthcare.”
Scholars participated in sessions exploring cultural competency, behavioral health integration, trauma and resilience, social determinants of health, human trafficking awareness, art therapy, rural health innovation, and much more.
“Glowing Forward: Illuminating the Future of Healthcare.”
Scholars participated in sessions exploring cultural competency, behavioral health integration, trauma and resilience, social determinants of health, human trafficking awareness, art therapy, rural health innovation, and much more.
Our Scholars had the opportunity to:
🌟 Hear from dynamic keynote speakers and thought leaders
🌟 Engage in hands‑on breakout sessions tailored to their interests
🌟 Network with healthcare professionals, alumni, and statewide AHEC partners
🌟 Participate in group discussions that centered compassion, equity, and community impact
🌟 Celebrate together during the fun “AHEC of a Party” glow‑themed reception
Northwest AHEC was proud to see our Scholars actively engaging, asking insightful questions, and representing our region with enthusiasm and professionalism. Their dedication reminds us why investing in the next generation of healthcare leaders matters so deeply.
A huge thank‑you to NC AHEC, the event hosts, speakers, panelists, and sponsors for creating such a meaningful experience for students across the state.
We’d also like to give a special acknowledgment to our own Melanee Wheeler Mills, who served as a key contributor on the statewide planning committee. Her leadership and dedication helped make this year’s conference exceptional for all who attended.
As we continue supporting students on their journey toward healthcare careers, we encourage future professionals to keep building momentum.
Learn more about NWAHEC Scholars Program
✨Join Us for Future Health Professionals Week!
Northwest AHEC is excited to partner with NC AHEC’s statewide Future Health Professionals Week, a coordinated effort designed to inspire students and families to explore health career pathways across North Carolina.
👉 Find Out More - https://go.northwestahec.wakehealth.edu/futurehealthprofweek
Join us for two statewide NC AHEC webinars designed to help students and families navigate health career pathways. These sessions are key highlights of Future Health Professionals Week and provide practical next steps for anyone exploring a future in healthcare.
Exploring Health Careers Student Webinar Registration
Tuesday, March 10, 2026 - 6:30-7:30 PM ET
In this live Webinar, students from across the State of North Carolina can explore 7 health careers in breakout sessions, hear directly from professionals, and learn about pursuing careers in rural and underserved communities. Incentives will be offered for completing evaluations.
Supporting Your Student's Health Career Journey Parent/Educator Webinar Registration
Thursday, March 12, 2026 - 6:30-7:30 PM ET
In this live webinar, families, educators, counselors, and community partners from across the state of North Carolina will learn about high-demand professions, community college pathways, and resources available through NC AHEC to support students throughout their health career journey.
The Wake Forest-UNC-Duke Pediatric Anesthesiology Conference is a regional meeting intended to bring together many pediatric anesthesia faculty with both regional and national reputations to provide a day long conference designed to address topics related to the best practices in the care of children during the perioperative period. Some of the topics to be discussed include: autism, transfusion practices, regional anesthesia and care of patients outside of the OR. Attendees will take away a number of various techniques, ideas and knowledge that can be applied to improve their care of children during the perioperative period.
Join Us on April 25, 2026
Bowman Gray Center for Medical Education
Winston-Salem, NC
Check out all the details and get registered today.
**Sign Up By March 1 For Discounted Rate**
Northwest AHEC is excited to join partners across the state in celebrating NC AHEC Future Health Professionals Week, happening March 8–14, 2026. This statewide initiative is designed to inspire high school students and families to explore the incredible variety of health career pathways available in North Carolina. Learn all about it here.
Whether you're a student curious about the future, a parent helping guide next steps, or an educator supporting career exploration, this week offers engaging, accessible opportunities to connect with health professionals, discover in-demand careers, and learn how to get started on a meaningful path.
🎯 What Is Future Health Professionals Week?
Future Health Professionals Week is a coordinated statewide celebration led by NC AHEC to raise awareness about:
- The broad range of health careers, including both direct and non-direct patient care roles
- Emerging fields, such as health-focused artificial intelligence
- Educational pathways, from community colleges to university programs
- Opportunities and resources available to students across North Carolina
This week is designed to be informative and inspiring, offering touchpoints for students at every stage—from pre-college to early-career exploration.
📅 What to Expect Throughout the Week
Here’s a snapshot of the exciting activities planned across March 8–14, 2026:
In this live Webinar, students from across the State of North Carolina can explore 7 health careers in breakout sessions, hear directly from professionals, and learn about pursuing careers in rural and underserved communities. Incentives will be offered for completing evaluations.
💡 Why This Week Matters
North Carolina needs a strong, well-trained healthcare workforce—especially in rural and underserved communities. Programs like Future Health Professionals Week help students:
- Understand real-world career options
- Build connections to experts and mentors
- Learn about support systems available through organizations like Northwest AHEC, which provides health careers programming, student services, and pathways exposure across 17 counties in our region
By participating, students gain insights that can shape their educational and career decisions for years to come.
🚀 Ready to Explore Your Future?
Northwest AHEC invites students, families, and educators across our region to take part in this exciting weeklong celebration of health careers.
👉 Learn more and sign up here:
https://go.northwestahec.wakehealth.edu/futurehealthprofweek
Let’s empower the next generation of health professionals—starting now.
Check out our video!
Your Schedule. Your Pace. Your Professional Growth.
Northwest AHEC offers self-paced, online programs designed for behavioral health professionals who want flexibility without compromising quality. Explore these enduring courses and earn continuing education credits at your convenience:
🖥 The Ethics of Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapy - Gain insight into ethical considerations when integrating spirituality into psychotherapy.
CE Credit: 3.0 Contact Hours
Access Anytime » nwahec.org/73815
🖥 Experienced SUD Professionals Panel: Sharing Their Expertise, Wisdom, and Hope - Learn from seasoned Substance Use Disorder professionals through a recorded panel discussion.
CE Credit: 2.0 Contact Hours
Access Anytime » nwahec.org/77058
🖥 Addressing the Connection of Brain Injury, Public Health and the Legal System in North Carolina - Explore the intersection of brain injury, public health, and legal considerations to better serve affected individuals.
CE Credit: 1.5 Contact Hours
Access Anytime » nwahec.org/75558
Don’t miss these opportunities to strengthen your practice and earn continuing education credits.
Explore All Behavioral Health Programs »
Why Choose Northwest AHEC’s Online Programs?
✔ Learn anytime, anywhere
✔ Earn CE credits at your own pace
✔ Expert-led, practical content
Start learning today!
Breastfeeding plays a vital role in the health and well-being of infants, mothers, and families. Each year, Northwest AHEC brings together experts, caregivers, and community champions to deepen knowledge, strengthen skills, and uplift those who support breastfeeding families.
This year’s 14th Annual Breastfeeding Forum promises to be one of our most engaging and impactful events yet.
📅 Event Details
Date: March 10, 2026
Time: 8:45 AM – 3:15 PM
Location: Hickory Metro Convention Center
1960 13th Avenue Drive SE, Hickory, NC 28602
This one-day, in-person conference is designed for professionals and advocates who play a role in supporting breastfeeding families—whether in clinical settings, community programs, or family-centered care environments.
🌟 What You’ll Learn
This year’s forum covers a diverse array of topics essential for anyone working with breastfeeding families. Attendees will gain updated, evidence-based insights on:
🍼 Community-Based Breastfeeding Support
- Learn about the purpose and growing impact of Baby Cafés, a community-centered model that provides accessible, judgment-free breastfeeding support.
- Explore strategies for engaging families and promoting long-term breastfeeding success.
🌿 Breastfeeding & Maternal Substance Use
- Understand the effects of common substances on lactation and infant health.
- Review evidence-based guidelines for safe breastfeeding practices in the context of maternal substance use.
- Gain strategies for supporting mothers using harm-reduction approaches and culturally sensitive care.
💛 Perinatal Mental Health
- Identify early emotional, behavioral, and psychological signs of disorders such as postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
- Learn to apply screening tools and referral strategies to connect families with timely support.
👶 Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS)
- Recognize early clinical indicators of NOWS.
- Learn evidence-based approaches to care for infants with NOWS within breastfeeding contexts.
🧑🍼 Choosing the Right Breast Pump
- Review current breast pump options on the market.
- Learn how to guide parents in selecting the best pump for their unique situation.
🎓 Continuing Education Credits
Participants can earn:
- 5 Contact Hours from Northwest AHEC
- 5 CPEUs
- 3 IBLCE L CERPs
- 2 IBLCE R CERPs
- 5 Nursing Contact Hours
👥 Who Should Attend?
This forum is ideal for:
- Lactation consultants
- WIC staff
- Registered dietitians
- Nurses & nurse educators
- Peer counselors
- Health educators
- Social workers
- Childbirth educators
- Anyone who assists families with breastfeeding
🏨 Travel Convenience
A block of rooms is available at the Hickory Courtyard Marriott, just steps from the convention center.
- Discounted Rate: $159 + tax
- Book by: February 23
🔗 Register for the Forum
Secure your spot and browse the full agenda here:
👉 14th Annual Breastfeeding Forum – Register Now
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.
