Belterra Casino Resort
777 Belterra Drive
Florence, IN 47020

Clink here for the 2025 agenda!

https://www.indianadistrict9.org/wp-content/uploads/District-9-HCC-Conference-Agenda-March-2025-FINAL.pdf

Battling the Disinformation Monster: The Importance of Integrating the Department of Health and Human Services into the Joint Information Center Process.
Brian R. Haines, Senior External Affairs Specialist
North Carolina Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management
In our opening session Brian Haines will talk about a variety of disinformation his agency and the Department of Health and Human Services combated during Hurricane Helene.

Rural Health and EMS
Eric Yazel, MD
EMS Medical Director, State of Indiana
Indiana has many rural hospitals, including some with more than a 45-minute trave time to care.  This presentation will discuss interfacility transfers, particularly rural critical hospital access to tertiary care centers, and care for trauma patients.

Real-World Event: Half-life After Death
Courtney Eckstein, Radiation Program Director, IDHS
Adam Reef, District Liaison, IDHS
Gavan Hebner, Director, Clark County Emergency Management
Effective collaboration between state and local partners is crucial during a radiological response. Open communication with all stakeholders yields efficiency and positive results when radiological material was discovered in the basement of a residence in a small Indiana town. The unexpected find raised immediate public health concerns, prompting swift action from local authorities, emergency responders, and state radiation experts. This case highlights the crucial role of intergovernmental coordination in effectively managing hazardous materials in residential areas. Key aspects of the response included joint efforts in assessing radiation levels, securing the area, and ensuring the safety of the homeowner and surrounding community. Additionally, the presentation will outline the PPE used, decontamination process, disposal of the material, and the regulatory frameworks that guided the intervention. By showcasing this cooperative approach, the session underscores the importance of clear communication, resource sharing, and preparedness between local and state agencies in handling such complex situations. The presentation aims to provide valuable insights for public safety officials, emergency management teams, and the general public on best practices for managing radioactive materials found in non-industrial settings.

Holistic Stress Management for First Responders
Sarah Beth Watson, Sacred Rose Medicinals 
First responders face unique challenges and traumatic experiences that can take a significant toll on their mental and physical well-being. Traditional therapeutic approaches may not always address the multifaceted needs of these individuals.  This presentation will discuss holistic stress management techniques and how to maintain health while in the service of others.

Red Cross and the Community: Strengthening Partnerships Before Disaster Strikes

The Red Cross is committed to being a trusted and reliable resource for communities. Over the past two years, our organization has maintained a continuous presence in disaster response efforts. But preparedness starts long before a crisis occurs.

What unique strengths does the Red Cross bring to the table? Who are the key community leaders and responders who best understand local resources and needs? By working together before disaster strikes, we can build strong relationships that foster preparedness, ensure a coordinated response, and support a more effective and sustainable recovery.

Red Cross Response: From Single-Family Fires to Mass Casualty Events

The Indiana Region of the American Red Cross is trained and prepared to assist communities in disasters of all sizes. This session will provide an overview of our response capabilities, how to contact the Red Cross in times of need, and what to expect when we respond.

We will explore key questions:

• What is the Red Cross mission?
• What fundamental principles guide our services?
• What assistance is available, and who can access it?

This information is essential for local responders and the healthcare community, as it helps set response expectations, improve coordination, and ensure that critical resources reach those in need. Together, we can strengthen our ability to support communities in times of crisis. How can the Red Cross best serve your community?

Join us in Ballroom C on Thursday night from 5pm-9pm for a tropical themed networking event!  

Dress in your best and brightest tropical colors, enjoy the live music and cash bar, and take this opportunity to talk and network with your local and state partners in a relaxed atmosphere!

Southern Indiana Garage Band will be back this year to provide great entertainment!