The emergency department team at Onslow Memorial Hospital, an affiliate of UNC Health in Jacksonville, worked together to initiate several key improvements in the 41-bed ED that sees roughly 56,000 patient visits a year.

With representatives from support staff, nursing, providers, lab, registration, environmental services, radiology, social work and patient advocacy, the team significantly improved patient flow in the ED, enhancing safety, quality and the overall patient experience. The door-to-provider time, overall length of stay and patients leaving without being seen were all reduced after implementing flow redesign. The team also shifted to a culture of excellence and ownership in the care and experience provided, empowering staff and strengthening accountability. This work has not only improved internal performance but has also expanded health care access and elevated the quality of care for the community it serves.

The Onslow ED team’s current focus is advancing pediatric readiness by strengthening protocols, staff training and resources to ensure high-quality, age-appropriate care for children.