CONNECT 2024 Recap and Photos

Texas College of Emergency Physicians (TCEP) hosted CONNECT 2024, marking its 50th anniversary, from April 19th to April 20th at the Margaritaville Lake Resort in Lake Conroe, TX. Nearly 250 emergency medicine professionals from across the state gathered for an enriching program to advance knowledge, foster collaboration, and inspire innovation in emergency care.

CME Program Highlights
Led by esteemed thought leaders in emergency medicine, the program included interactive workshops, panel discussions, and lectures covering a diverse range of topics, including opioid overdose discharge protocols, human trafficking training, sepsis updates, geriatric ED accreditation guidelines, and medical ethics. The program not only provided valuable CME credits but also enabled attendees to enhance their clinical skills and meet state mandated licensure requirements by the Texas Medical Board (TMB).

Resident Program
The Resident Program offered Residents and Fellows a vital platform for learning and networking. Tailored sessions addressed practical skills on financial literacy, strategies for avoiding med-malpractice lawsuits, tort reform updates, and substance use disorders approaches.

Medical Student Program
Recognizing the importance of nurturing interest and talent in emergency medicine, CONNECT featured a dynamic Medical Student Program. Participants engaged with industry experts, participated in hands-on skills labs, and gained insights into residency training and career pathways in emergency medicine. This program aimed to inspire the next generation of emergency physicians and equip them with the resources and guidance needed for future success.

50th Anniversary Celebration

Amidst the educational sessions, CONNECT provided a variety of opportunities to celebrate five decades of progress, innovation, and advocacy in emergency medicine. Dr. Angela Gardner delivered a keynote presentation titled “Past, Present, and Future of Emergency Medicine,” reflecting on TCEP’s evolution and impact over the past 50 years. Attendees also gathered for a special 50th Anniversary Celebration, reminiscing about milestones and shared anecdotes while looking ahead to continued excellence in emergency care.

Additional Highlights

Annual Research Forum – More than 30 abstract submissions from medical students, residents/fellows and attendings/researchers were showcased, with notable winners including Kevin Ku from Baylor Scott and White (Temple) and Nicholas Linares, MD from CHRISTUS Health/Texas A&M (Corpus Christi).
Awards Ceremony – An awards ceremony recognized outstanding contributions of TCEP members. Award recipients included:

Committee Leadership Award – Katy Wyszynski; UNTHSC-TCOM
Michael Wainscott Legacy Award – Lauren Bayliss, MD
James Hayes Legacy Award – Hilary Fairbrother, MD, FACEP
President’s Award – CHRISTUS Spohn Emergency Medicine Residency Program

Exhibit Hall – CONNECT featured an expansive exhibit hall where attendees interacted with industry leaders, explored innovative solutions, and discovered resources to enhance patience care.
Annual Business Meeting – Members received updates on organizational efforts and participated in board elections.

Overall, CONNECT 2024 proved to be a resounding success, bringing together emergency medicine professionals in celebration, education, and collaboration. Thanks to everyone who attended CONNECT 2024!

TCEP thanks the following Sponsors