April 2026 Issue No. 29

QUARTER 1

APRIL 2026

ACHE of the Triangle and Eastern North Carolina

THRIVE CHECK OUT OUR UPCOMING EVENTS! PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE TRENT BEACH, PHARMD, FACHE

FEATURED MEMBER DAVID H. LONG, JR., FACHE

About Us ACHE of the Triangle & Eastern North Carolina (ACHE-TENC) is a nonprofit membership association and an independent chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), a professional society representing over 48,000 members worldwide. ACHE-TENC serves nearly 1,000 ACHE members who live and work in the 54 North Carolina counties from the RaleighDurham area north to the Virginia border, east to the Outer Banks, and south to the South Carolina border.

Our Vision ACHE of the Triangle & Eastern North Carolina (ACHE-TENC) aims to be recognized as the leading professional membership association dedicated to supporting and advancing healthcare leaders throughout the region.

Our Mission Our mission is to support the professional development of healthcare leaders in the region, preparing them to shape healthcare management at the local, regional, and national levels.

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Goals Deliver programs that bring local value to ACHE members assigned to our Chapter service region.

Increase communication among healthcare management professionals.

Advance members toward Fellow, ACHE certification.

Foster the development and implementation of best practices in healthcare management.

Practice good financial stewardship.

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CONTENTS 4 ACHE-TENC President’s Message: Trent Beach, PharmD, FACHE

10-11 Member Spotlight: David H. Long, Jr., FACHE

5 Chapter Performance Metrics 6 Congress Recognition of Chapter Awards 7 Welcome to New ACHE-TENC Members 9 Congratulations to our new Fellow!

23 Upcoming Events 25 Annual HESA Dinner Registration 27 National News

12-22 Chapter Event Synopses A Recap of ACHE-TENC Events in Q1

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ACHE-TENC President’s Message

“I am grateful for the dedicated volunteers and board members who make this work possible across our region.”

TRENT BEACH, PHARMD, FACHE

Dear ACHE-TENC members, I hope you are well as we move through a year that continues to demand clarity and courage from healthcare leaders. It remains a privilege to serve as your President and to witness the commitment and collegiality that define our chapter.

Across North Carolina, healthcare leaders are navigating workforce pressures, financial constraints, regulatory shifts, and rapid technological change. Among these forces, few topics generate as much interest—and uncertainty—as artificial intelligence (AI).

AI Won’t Transform Healthcare— Leadership Will At ACHE Congress in Houston this month, AI was often framed as a ready-made solution. Yet conversations with fellow executives revealed a more grounded truth: the real challenge is not whether AI will enter healthcare, but how leaders will govern its use.

AI holds tremendous promise, but its impact will depend on intentional leadership, ethical oversight, and clear values.

The differentiator will not be the sophistication of the tools, but the strength of the governance frameworks guiding them. In this way, AI is less a technology project and more a test of leadership.

Responsible adoption requires disciplined questions: What problem are we solving? How do we ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability? Where must human judgment remain central? These questions reflect our core responsibilities as healthcare leaders. I am proud that ACHETENC is already modeling the thoughtful, values‑driven leadership this moment requires.

Celebrating ACHE-TENC In recent months, our chapter has delivered meaningful opportunities for learning and connection—from C‑suite roundtables and strategic planning efforts to educational programming, fellow advancement preparation, and student scholarships. These initiatives reflect a chapter that is thoughtful, inclusive, and future‑focused. I am grateful for the dedicated volunteers and board members who make this work possible across our region.

Looking Ahead In the months ahead, ACHE-TENC will continue offering ACHE Face‑to‑Face and Qualified Education programs, regional networking events, and leadership development opportunities for early‑, mid‑, and senior‑careerists.

I encourage you to visit our Event Calendar or follow us on LinkedIn for updates.

These gatherings are more than events—they are spaces to sharpen our thinking, learn from one another, and build relationships that sustain us through complex decisions. I hope you will continue to see ACHETENC as both a professional home and a leadership resource.

Your ideas and perspectives matter. Please feel free to reach out to me anytime to share a thought, suggest a topic, or explore ways to get more involved.

Together, we can ensure ACHETENC remains a trusted forum for thoughtful leadership in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.

With gratitude and optimism, Trent Beach, PharmD, FACHE

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ACHE-TENC Chapter 2025 Performance Metrics ACHE measures chapter performance annually based on four key performance criteria: net membership growth, education and networking performance, advancement of eligible members, and member satisfaction. We are working towards achieving the 2025 standard performance metrics.

Education & Networking Performance

Advancement of Eligible Members

Member Satisfaction

2025 Standard: 15.1 indexed attendee hours

2025 Standard: 4.1

Current Status: 16.08 indexed attendee hours

Current Status: 4.4

2025 Standard: 16

Current Status: 6

Net Membership Growth

2025 Standard: 7.2

Current Status: 30.5

Here's how you can contribute to meeting our chapter performance goals while investing in your own professional development: Participate in chapter programming

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Complete the Chapter Member Needs Survey in May

Earn your FACHE credential

Join ACHE or reinstate your membership

Celebrating ACHE‑TENC’s 2026 Chapter Awards Recognition at ACHE Congress!

ACHE-TENC is honored to receive two national recognitions from the American College of Healthcare Executives, celebrating our members’ commitment to leadership, learning, and service. These awards reflect the exceptional engagement of our volunteers and the dedicated leadership of past President Matt Gitzinger, FACHE, and our 2025 Board. We were proud to have our 2026 President, Trent Beach, FACHE, accept these distinctions at ACHE Congress on behalf of our entire chapter!

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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS! The following individuals joined ACHE or transitioned into our chapter in quarter 1 of 2026.

We are happy to have you, and look forward to connecting at an upcoming chapter event!

Amber Audlin Angela M. Adams Angela Overman Ann Wrigley Ansley Lassiter Ayanna M. Mitchell Benjamin E. Holroyd Benjamin Henein, MBA Brett frazee Brian E. Craig, II Brianna Osbourne Cassandra L. Terry, MHA CDR Ariel R. Campbell Cetera Mincey Christi S. Meggs Christina Slemp Colin C. Ottey Daniel P. Bateman Diana Bauer Drew Corpening, MHA,MPH,PMP Ebony S. DeBerry Ekta K. Mangat Eric Wolak, DNP, RN, NEA-BC Heather Miller Helen M. Vislosky, FACHE Ian Stewart, MBA Ishmeet K. Kumar Jamie Cicali John Devaney, MHA John Owens Joseph Quigg, V

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Katherine A. Meese, PhD Kaylah Nelson Kennethia Jacobs, MHA Khalil J. Cobb Kristie Whiting Lakisha Richardson Lauren Glaccum, M.Ed. Lisa Degitz Lt Col Enrilyn Thronson Mary Kathleen Helak, RN, FACHE Melissa A. Torres Melissa King Nicolas C. Munsen, PMP Rakia Reed Ranee E. Stephens Pender, MSN, RN, NE-BC Rebekah Gray Reuben W. Horace Robert D. Searfoss SGM Timothy K. Mollett SGT Vera G. Curcio Shaunice Fulmore Shelly Lowery, MD Sheryl Cherukara Spencer Thomas, FACHE Spurgeon Matta SSgt LaQuisha Jackson, DNP, MSN, RN Stella J. Smolowitz Thomas J. Gough Wil Santivasi, MD William G. Hatchell, MHA Yemi Mateola, MBA

JOIN US TODAY...

AND START TAKING ADVANTAGE OF ALL ACHE HAS TO OFFER!

Have you renewed your membership for 2026?

REINSTATE NOW! JOIN

REINSTATE

RENEW

Join now to become eligible for members-only programs and discounted pricing at both the local and national levels. Click here to join.

Perhaps your membership has lapsed, and you've been meaning to reinstate it. Don't miss out on another year! Click here to access your pre-populated reinstatement application.

ACHE membership renewal is open. Timely renewal ensures your ACHE membership and ACHE TENC chapter affiliation remain intact with no lapse in membership. Click here to log in to your ACHE profile and renew.

Benefits include a wide range of career resources, networking opportunities, mentorship, educational events, and more!

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Legacy in Distinguished Leadership New ACHE Fellows The FACHE credential brings continuous value to you as a healthcare leader, to your organization and to your community.

Provides recognition as a leader among leaders in healthcare management Demonstrates your competency in all areas of healthcare management Signifies your lifelong commitment to change and improvement

New quarter one fellow!

Captain Edward H. Owens, II, PA, DMSc, FACHE

We asked our new fellows to share what ACHE Fellowship recognition means to them: Captain Edward H. Owens, II, PA, DMSc, FACHE Commanding Officer Field Medical Training Battalion-East Jacksonville, NC “ACHE Fellowship represents a commitment to professional excellence, continuous learning, and leadership within healthcare. For me, it is especially meaningful as it connects my experience in military medicine with the broader healthcare community, reinforcing that the principles of leadership, accountability, and high-quality care apply across all settings. I view Fellowship not as an endpoint, but as a responsibility to continue growing, contributing, and mentoring others in the profession.”

How to become an ACHE Fellow Meet the eligibility requirements.

Submit your advancement application. Upon approval, you will have two (2) years in which you must take and pass the Board of Governors Exam.

Contact the ACHE-TENC Fellowship Advancement Committee Chairs to learn more!

Susan Gueiss (susan.gueiss@duke.edu) & Sheila Kelty (Sheilakelty@gmail.com)

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ACHE-TENC Member Spotlight David H. Long, Jr., FACHE Executive Director of Operations for ECU Health Duplin Hospital

What inspired you to pursue a career in the healthcare industry, and what do you do in your current role?

and I remain dedicated to advancing healthcare through service, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

My decision to pursue a career in healthcare was rooted in a desire to serve others through meaningful, purposedriven work. I was drawn to the opportunity to support patients and families during critical moments while helping care teams perform at their best. Over the past two decades, experiences in nursing operations, spiritual care, advance care planning and leadership have reinforced my commitment to whole-person care and the importance of aligning strategy, culture, and compassion.

How long have you been an ACHE member and why did you decide to join?

I currently serve as Executive Director of Operations at Duplin Hospital within ECU Health. In this role, I oversee ancillary and clinical support services including Pharmacy, Radiology, Laboratory, Respiratory Care, Rehabilitation, Emergency Management, Facilities Services, Volunteer Services, Marketing and Community Outreach. I am responsible for operational and financial performance, strategic execution, and regulatory readiness across these areas for my hospital.

My focus is on building high-performing teams, improving access and efficiency, and strengthening the patient experience. As a Fellow of ACHE, I value the organization’s commitment to leadership development and excellence,

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I chose to join the American College of Healthcare Executives over 20 years ago to further strengthen my ability to lead in a complex and rapidly evolving healthcare environment. Throughout my career, I have been committed to improving patient experience, building high-performing teams, and driving operational excellence across diverse areas including nursing, patient flow, spiritual care, and in system-wide operational initiatives.

As my leadership responsibilities expanded, I recognized the importance of connecting with a broader network of healthcare leaders who share a commitment to excellence and service. ACHE provides access to best practices, thought leadership, and professional development opportunities that support continuous growth and informed decision-making.

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ACHE-TENC Member Spotlight David H. Long, Jr., FACHE Executive Director of Operations for ECU Health Duplin Hospital

In my current role with ECU Health, the ability to stay current on industry trends, regulatory expectations, and innovative care models is critical. ACHE has enabled me to sharpen my leadership skills, apply proven strategies, and contribute to advancing healthcare delivery within my organization.

Equally important, I value ACHE’s emphasis on ethical leadership and service to the profession, which aligns closely with my own commitment to making a meaningful impact in the communities served.

What advice would you give to younger members who are earlier in their careers?

My advice is to seek diverse experiences and stay open to unexpected opportunities. Some of the most valuable growth in my career came from stepping into roles outside my initial path, like Nursing Services and Spiritual Care, which broadened my perspective and strengthened my ability to lead across service lines.

Equally important is building strong relationships.

Healthcare is a team effort, and success depends on your ability to collaborate with clinicians, staff, and leaders across the organization. Learn from those around you and invest in mentorship. Collaborate with your local ACHE Chapter, attend events, network and step out of your comfort zone to explore new conversations that may lead to new opportunities.

Focus on developing both technical and leadership skills. A solid understanding of operations, finance, and performance improvement is critical, but so is the ability to communicate effectively, build trust, and lead through change.

Finally, stay connected to your purpose, keeping patients at the center of your work.

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What professional accomplishments are you most proud of?

Professionally, I am very proud to have been selected as a recipient of the ACHE Regent’s Award for the Early Career Healthcare Executive in 2009 and also for receiving the Healthcare Hero’s Award from the NC Hospital Association for my support of COVID-19 in 2022. And in my current role, I’m extremely proud to support the leaders and teams that I work with at ECU Health Duplin Hospital.

What is one healthcare trend or industry transformation that you are most excited about right now, and why?

Working in a rural setting in eastern North Carolina, I’m most excited about innovations in telehealth and virtual care. Expanding access to timely, convenient care empowers patients, enhances outcomes, and enables healthcare systems to better meet community needs while optimizing resources and supporting care team efficiency.

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Q1 2026

CHAPTER EVENT SYNOPSES

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C-SUITE ROUNDTABLE UNC HEALTH WAYNE ACHE of the Triangle and Eastern North Carolina was pleased to host the C-Suite Roundtable with UNC Health Wayne in Goldsboro. Held virtually on Wednesday, January 21.

Facilitated by Howard Whitfield, COO, UNC Health Wayne, the discussion brought together members of the executive team for a candid conversation on operational priorities, strategic challenges, and the evolving health care landscape. Leaders shared how UNC Health Wayne lives its mission, Patients First. Quality Health Care.

Close to Home, through a culture of safety and zero harm, continuous improvement and advanced technology, and efforts to expand access to high-quality care across eastern North Carolina.

The conversation reflected strong alignment with UNC Health’s broader mission and a commitment to community-centered, compassionate care.

MODERATOR

Howard Whitfield COO, UNC Health Wayne

THE PANELISTS

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Dr. Jessie Tucker, CEO, UNC Health Wayne

Dr. Ka tie Hile, Interim CNO, UNC Health Wayne

William (Bill) Thoma, CFO, UNC Health Wayne

Doug Har rison, CHRO, UNC Health Wayne

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C-SUITE ROUNDTABLE UNC MEDICAL GROUP

On March 20, ACHE of the Triangle & Eastern North Carolina hosted a C-Suite Roundtable featuring leaders from UNC Health Medical Group, bringing together healthcare executives from across the region for a candid discussion on the state of ambulatory care and physician practice leadership.

Notably, this was the first C-Suite Roundtable hosted by ACHE of TENC focused specifically on ambulatory care, an area that continues to grow in importance for health systems nationwide. The panel provided valuable context for why ambulatory care is so critical: it serves as the front door to the health system and forms the foundation for long-standing relationships with patients and communities.

Together, the incredible panelists offered thoughtful insights into what it takes to lead a large, statewide physician enterprise serving diverse communities across North Carolina.

Panelists included: Lisa Rosenberg, Chief Operating Officer Sachin Gupta, MD, Chief Medical Officer Maria Jayoussi, Vice President of Finance Susan Gilmore, FACHE, Executive Director, Business Development & Planning Moderator: Matt Gitzinger, MHA, FACHE

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CHAPTER EVENT SYNOPSIS The panel also reflected on how healthcare leadership has evolved—from changing expectations in physician recruitment (with greater emphasis on benefits and work-life balance) to the growing role of analytics in decision-making. At the same time, organizations are navigating broader societal challenges, including increasing mistrust in science and the need to better support healthcare teams in difficult environments.

Partnership is everything.

Effective organizations rely on strong physician– administrative dyad leadership. Strategy works best when physicians and operational leaders build a shared vision rather than operating in parallel lanes.

Across all of this, physician practices remain a core strategic asset for health systems. Investments in access, subspecialty care, virtual services, and technology help ensure patients receive the right care in the right setting, while allowing systems to respond to the needs of communities across North Carolina.

Culture still wins.

One of the more memorable comments of the morning was simple: “Culture trumps strategy— every time.” Even the best strategic plan (or financial model) struggles if teams don’t feel heard, supported, and aligned around the mission.

The discussion closed with several leadership reminders: understand the fundamentals of the business—access, expenses, payer mix, and patient populations; bring ideas to test even if you don’t yet have all the answers; and listen closely to your teams, where many of the best solutions originate.

Change works best when it’s collaborative.

As one panelist noted, the key is to “do it with them, not to them.” Whether the topic is technology adoption, access improvements, or new care models, engaging physicians and care teams early makes all the difference.

A sincere thank you to Lisa Rosenberg, Dr. Sachin Gupta, Susan Gilmore, and Maria Jayoussi for generously sharing their time and perspectives with our ACHE community. Their candor and practical insights made for an engaging and thoughtful conversation, and serve as a helpful reminder that while how we deliver care will continue to evolve, the why remains the same: serving patients and communities.

Several themes stood out during the discussion.

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Leading a Culture of Safety: The Blueprint for Success This virtual panel explored what it truly takes to build and sustain a culture of safety in healthcare. The speakers emphasized that safety is not an “extra,” but integral to the work we do every day.

Moderator Throughout the panel, several key themes arose, which included transparency and disclosure when errors occur, and caring for both patients and the “second victims” of medical errors, the healthcare team members who are emotionally impacted by adverse events. The panelists stressed the importance of proactively pushing support and well-being resources to affected team members rather than expecting them to seek help.

Discussion also highlighted that leadership behaviors shape culture, require environments where team members feel safe to speak up about concerns and errors, and depend on moving Cassi Frank, MMSc, PA-C, CPPS beyond high-level principles to practical, well-implemented Director of Quality & Safety for actions using implementation science to drive meaningful Depar tment of Medicine, safety improvements.

UNC School of Medicine

The Panelists

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Donna M. Prosser, DNP, RN, FACHE Vice President, Kaufman Hall

Ann Kane, MD Vice Chair of Quality, Johns Hopkins Children's Center

Apar na Kama th, MD, MS Associa te Chief Medical Of ficer for Quality & Safety for Duke Regional & Raleigh Hospitals, Duke Health

Jenny Boyd, MD Chief Quality Of ficer, UNC Health

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ACHC-TENC HAPPY HOUR Members gathered at Hi-Wire Brewing for a relaxed Happy Hour and great conversation!

Join us for the next Happy Hour!

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Thank you to our featured Sponsor, Outset!

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ACHE NC CHAPTERS RECEPTION AT ACHE CONGRESS IN HOUSTON

ACHE Congress once again demonstrated why it is more than a conference, serving as a catalyst for learning, connection, and purpose-driven leadership across the healthcare field.

This year’s gathering in Houston was energized by a standout NC Chapters' Reception co-hosted with ACHE of Greater Charlotte and ACHE of the Triad that brought together leaders from across our state for an evening of meaningful conversation and community!

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ACHE-TENC MEMBERS PRESENT AT ACHE CONGRESS IN HOUSTON

Growing the Next Generation of Leaders: A Supervisor Development Blueprint Daniel Lehman, FACHE – Vice President of Operations, UNC Hospitals Ana-Elis Perry, FACHE – Associate Vice President of Operations, UNC Hospitals Jessica McGee, RD, FACHE – Director of Clinical Nutrition, UNC Hospitals Ingrid Jones – System Director of Talent Engagement, UNC Health Members of the ACHE-TENC recently showcased their work on a national stage at the ACHE Congress, highlighting an innovative, data-driven approach to frontline leadership development within Support Services at UNC Hospitals. Their presentation centered on the creation and implementation of a comprehensive Leader Engagement Program—designed in direct response to feedback from frontline supervisors April 2026 Quarter 1 | Page 20

who expressed a lack of access to formal leadership training, despite being expected to lead teams and influence outcomes. By partnering across Support Services, Human Resources, and Talent Development, the team built a scalable, inclusive program that combined in-person and virtual learning, mentorship, and practical skillbuilding to meet leaders where they are.

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The team shared compelling outcomes demonstrating the program’s impact on workforce and organizational performance. Over an 18-month period, the initiative delivered 51 hours of tailored education across 23 sessions, established a highly engaged mentorship program, and drove measurable improvements in retention, employee engagement, and patient experience. During the first 15 months, voluntary turnover improved by approximately 7%, reinforcing the critical link between investing in frontline leaders and achieving stronger organizational outcomes.

Equally powerful were the stories behind the data— leaders showing up more confident in navigating difficult conversations, better understanding available resources, and leading with greater compassion and care for their teams. Notably, this work was accomplished without additional budget, funding, or FTEs by repurposing a Staff Development Specialist role to support division-wide programming. Standout elements included formal mentorship and case-based, hands-on learning experiences that translated directly into daily leadership practice. As the program continues to evolve, new initiatives—such as a pilot “Learning Essential English in Healthcare” course in partnership with a local community college—are advancing workforce development and retention, alongside ongoing collaboration with HR to define and communicate clear career pathways that support internal mobility and long-term professional growth.

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APRIL 2026

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UPCOMING Q2 EVENTS 1 BOARD OF GOVERNORS

EXAM REVIEW WEBINAR SERIES March 12 - May 28, 2026 6:00 - 7:30 PM Virtual

2 30TH ANNUAL HESA/ACHETENC DINNER & AUCTION April 15, 2026 | 5:30 - 8:30 PM The Carolina Club 150 Stadium Drive, Chapel Hill, NC

3 THE BUSINESS BEHIND BETTER CARE

June 4, 2026 | 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM WakeMed Cary Conference Center 1900 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary, NC

4 DUKE C-SUITE ROUNDTABLE:

AMBULATORY OPERATIONS AND OPTIMIZATION November 9, 2026 | 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM Save the Date!

Click here to visit our Events page for upcoming opportunities.

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QUARTER 1

BOARD OF GOVERNORS EXAM REVIEW WEBINAR SERIES HOSTED BY:

Healthcare Knowledge Management/Leadership Business Knowledge

Professional Ethics Quality/Performance Finance

Healthcare Law Information Technology Human Resources Governance

Join our 12-week webinar series (3/12 - 5/28) and gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pass the Board of Governors Exam!

Sessions are held Thursdays, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM, online.

Register now to take the next step in your career!

NATIONAL NEWS 80% of returning ACA enrollees report higher healthcare costs in 2026 A recent KFF follow-up survey highlights the impact of rising costs on individuals enrolled in ACA Marketplace plans. Among those who had coverage in 2025, approximately 9% are now uninsured, while 28% switched to a different plan. The expiration of enhanced premium tax credits appears to have played a significant role, with cost increases, rather than changes in health needs, driving most coverage decisions.

Even among those who re-enrolled for 2026, affordability concerns are widespread. Over half report that their healthcare costs are “a lot higher,” 2 and the majority indicate increases across premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses. These financial pressures are translating into heightened anxiety about accessing care, particularly for emergency services, hospitalizations, and ongoing treatment needs such as prescriptions.

The survey also underscores the broader economic strain associated with rising healthcare costs. More than half of returning enrollees report cutting back on basic necessities like food and household items to afford coverage, with even higher rates among those managing chronic conditions. While roughly 70% of 2025 enrollees maintained Marketplace coverage into 2026, the findings point to growing instability and affordability challenges within the individual insurance market Unlocking the future: Medicare and Brain-Computer interfaces.

Implantable brain-computer interfaces (iBCIs) are rapidly advancing technologies that can translate neural activity into control of external devices, offering new possibilities for individuals with paralysis or severe motor impairments. While the clinical promise is substantial—particularly for restoring communication and mobility—access remains uncertain. Many potential users are Medicare beneficiaries, making coverage decisions by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) a critical determinant of whether these innovations will reach patients.

A key challenge is that Medicare coverage standards differ from FDA approval requirements. Beyond safety and effectiveness, CMS requires evidence of “clinical utility,” meaning that devices must demonstrate meaningful improvements in health outcomes.

Current iBCI trials often emphasize nonmedical applications, which may not meet this threshold. To support coverage, future research will need to focus on medically necessary functions, such as enabling communication or controlling mobility devices, in alignment with existing coverage policies.

Importantly, the authors highlight the need for coverage frameworks based on functional impairment rather than specific diagnoses. Because iBCIs could benefit patients across a range of neurological conditions, a functionbased approach would promote more equitable and consistent access.

Ultimately, ensuring availability of iBCIs will depend on generating robust evidence, aligning with payer requirements, and positioning these devices as essential components of care rather than optional technologies.

References 1

Goldring, A., Findeiss, L., & Fleisher, L. (2026). Unlocking the future: Medicare and Brain-Computer interfaces. Health Affairs. https://doi.org/10.1377/forefront.20260318.235606 2

Kuchno, K. (2026, March 20). 80% of returning ACA enrollees report higher healthcare costs in 2026. Becker’s Hospital Review. https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/finance/80-of-returning-aca-enrollees-report-higher-healthcare-costs-in-2026/ April 2026 Quarter 1 | Page 27

Credits Creative Directors

Christian Bergevin, UNC Health Dolapo Busuyi, ECU Health Holly Harris, UNC Chapel Hill Babar Iqbal, UNC Chapel Hill Ashley Mahan, UNC Health Isabelle Murphy, UNC Chapel Hill Lynn Norwood, A.T. Still University

Contributing Writers

Trent Beach, FACHE, UNC Health David Long, FACHE, ECU Health Jessica McGee, FACHE, UNC Health

President President-Elect Immediate Past President Treasurer Secretary

Trent Beach, FACHE, UNC Health Paul Marini, FACHE, UNC Orthopedics Matt Gitzinger, FACHE, UNC Health Alliance Savannah Stallings, Duke Health Jessica McGee, FACHE, UNC Health

President Advisory Council

Tom Hughes, FACHE, WakeMed Health & Hospitals Ana-Elis Perry, FACHE, UNC Health Swati Bhardwaj, FACHE, Southern Atlantic Healthcare Alliance Emily Greene, FACHE, Duke Health

2026 Committee Chairs

Ashley Mahan, UNC Health Holly Harris, UNC Chapel Hill Margarita Khosh, Commerce Bank Jan Lee Santos, Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine Susan Gueiss, FACHE, Duke Health Integrated Practice Sheila Kelty, FACHE, IMH Healthcare Kishan Shah, Duke Health Sarah Vorhees, Harris Teeter Pharmacy Euniqua Bullock, Duke Health Integrated Practice Amina Dixon, Duke Health System Allen Stephens, Duke Health Integrated Practice Jennifer Woody, UNC Health Jessica Teague, Hillrom/Baxter Inc Brian Cocks, Baxter International Inc. David Long, FACHE, ECU Health THRIVE www.ache-tenc.org

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Thank you to our Sponsors PLATINUM

GOLD

SILVER

Become a Sponsor!

Click Here for more Information on becoming a 2026 Sponsor!

Sponsors play a critical role in facilitating the professional development of healthcare leaders in the region.

For additional information, contact our Sponsorship Chairs.

2026 Sponsorship Chairs: Brian Cocks and Jessica Teague April 2026 Quarter 1 | Page 29

BECK IS HERE TO PARTNER. HERE TO DESIGN. HERE TO BUILD.

NOW IN RALEIGH. After years of delivering projects across North Carolina, we’re excited to plant roots in the Triangle. Our new Raleigh office allows us to partner even more closely with the clients and communities shaping this region’s future.

The only constant in the healthcare industry is change. At Beck, we understand the challenges and opportunities that healthcare leaders face as they work to deliver high-quality care in an evolving environment. With more than 60 years of experience, our multidisciplinary team collaborates closely with clients to shape project visions that meet today’s needs while preparing for tomorrow’s success. Our expertise spans strategic planning, operations, architecture, construction, and medical equipment planning, allowing us to challenge conventional thinking and deliver smarter, more resilient solutions.

From complex clinical environments to medical education and training facilities that support the next generation of caregivers, Beck brings a comprehensive perspective to healthcare delivery. We embrace advanced design concepts and innovative care models that promote healing, enhance the patient experience, and support staff efficiency through evidence-based design.

CONNECT WITH US

Ryan Horne Principal, Office Leader, Raleigh ryanhorne@beckgroup.com 919 295 0083

ENGAGE WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Follow ACHE-TENC on social media platforms and tag us in your ACHE-TENC related posts. Be sure to visit us frequently on our website for event details and program updates!

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Stay Connected!

Are you planning on attending an upcoming ACHE-TENC event?

Have you attended another industry-related event that your ACHE-TENC colleagues should be aware of?

If you've answered yes to either, we want to hear from you!

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APRIL 2026

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QUARTER 1