Don Berger | Administrative Director of Safety Operations

Don Berger serves as the Administrative Director of Safety Operations for the El Paso County Hospital District. In this executive capacity, he provides strategic oversight for safety and emergency management across a sprawling healthcare network, including three hospitals, an ambulatory care center, two off-site emergency rooms, three urgent care centers, and ten neighborhood clinics.

With 17 years of specialized experience in hospital safety, emergency management, and business continuity planning, Don is a recognized leader in navigating the complexities of healthcare environments. His expertise ensures that the District remains in strict regulatory compliance with local, state, and federal mandates while maintaining operational resilience during crises.

Professional Background

Don’s career is rooted in a lifetime of public service and high-stakes operational leadership:

• El Paso Fire Department: Served the community for 24 years, retiring as Assistant Fire Chief of Operations. In this role, he managed fire and ambulance services, aircraft rescue, training, and safety records.

• Emergency Management Coordination: From 2005 to 2008, Don served as the Emergency Management Coordinator for both the City and County of El Paso, bridging the gap between municipal response and regional preparedness.

Core Competencies

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring all facilities meet the rigorous standards required for healthcare accreditation and patient safety.

• Emergency Management: Designing and implementing robust response protocols for a multi-site medical system.

• Continuity Planning: Developing strategic frameworks to guarantee the uninterrupted delivery of essential medical services during unforeseen disruptions.

Don combines decades of frontline emergency experience with nearly two decades of administrative healthcare leadership to ensure a safe, secure, and prepared environment for patients and staff alike.