Historic rainfall and flooding from Hurricane Helene created “managed chaos” for hospitals in western North Carolina. Power outages forced many to rely on backup generators, while widespread water system failures necessitated alternative water sources for essential tasks like handwashing and equipment sterilization. Impassable roads hindered travel for both staff and patients, and communication disruptions strained emergency responses.
Despite these challenges, all western North Carolina hospitals remained operational throughout the hurricane and its aftermath. Stephen Lawler, head of the North Carolina Healthcare Association, confirmed no significant structural damage to hospitals in the 25 hardest-hit counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. He described the situation as “managed chaos,” emphasizing the hospitals’ dependence on the state’s ability to clear roads and deliver supplies.
Kody Kinsley, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, reported that all 22 acute care hospitals in the region had power restored after relying on backup generators for days. Food, water, fuel, and other essential supplies were delivered to maintain operations.
Steady progress in clearing roads and restoring power and communication is crucial for relief efforts. While over 400 roads remained closed, emergency responders could still access affected areas. Clear roads are essential for hospitals to receive necessary supplies and for staff and patients to travel safely. Hospitals are collaborating with local emergency management, state officials, and FEMA to address emerging needs, such as the urgent request for additional oxygen supplies over the weekend.
The initial response felt like a “furious sprint,” according to Rob Hudspeth, a senior leader at UNC Health Appalachian. Communication disruptions posed the biggest ongoing challenge, complicating logistics and operations. A Starlink satellite phone system was installed at Cannon Memorial Hospital in Avery County, enabling the first calls in days.
Greg Lowe, CEO of Mission Hospital in Asheville, faced the storm just a week into his new role. The hospital activated crisis protocols, calling in staff and housing them on-site. While power was restored after several days on backup generators, water system failures persisted. Restoring water and sewer services is now the hospital’s top priority, as the lack of pressurized water hampered essential functions.
HCA Healthcare, Mission Health’s parent company, has been supplying tanker trucks of water daily and plans to deliver additional mobile units, including kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry facilities. Hospitals are also prioritizing staff well-being, recognizing the long hours worked and potential damage to their homes. HCA Healthcare is bringing in staff from other states to provide relief.
Hospitals across North Carolina are sharing resources through mutual aid agreements. Unaffected hospitals in central and eastern parts of the state are sending personnel and supplies to assist their western counterparts. FEMA is mobilizing federal medical teams for long-term support, and a state medical support center opened in Caldwell County. UNC Health is offering free telehealth visits for residents in affected areas.
Community organizations are also contributing to relief efforts. Samaritan’s Purse set up emergency medical tents at Cannon Memorial Hospital and Watauga Medical Center to provide oxygen to those without power. They are also establishing a field hospital at Cannon Memorial to increase capacity. High Country Community Health is redirecting staff to assist in areas where their own facilities are temporarily closed due to utility disruptions.
The road to recovery will be long, with ongoing rescue efforts and health risks posed by floodwaters and debris. Hospital leaders are concerned about patients’ post-discharge needs, ensuring access to follow-up care and addressing housing challenges. The collaborative efforts of hospitals, government agencies, and community organizations are vital to meeting the ongoing needs of those affected by Hurricane Helene.
