What is AHEC?

The Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) program, established by Congress in 1971, aims to improve access to quality health care in rural and underserved areas of the United States. It connects academic institutions with community-based health organizations to enhance the health care workforce.

The northeast Ohio AHEC program office is in the Department of Family and Community Medicine with AHEC Centers at the University of Akron, Cleveland State University, Kent State University Stark, and Youngstown State University.

Objectives

Workforce development

• Recruitment: Encourages young people, especially from medically underserved areas, to pursue careers in health professions.
• Training: Provides educational opportunities and experiences to health professions students, residents, and practicing professionals to prepare them for work in underserved areas.

Community health

• Service learning: Involves students in community-based experiences that address local health needs.
• Continuing education: Offers ongoing training for health professionals to keep their skills current and relevant.

Interdisciplinary collaboration

• Promotes collaboration among various health professions to enhance comprehensive patient care.

Health disparities

• Focuses on reducing health disparities by improving healthcare delivery and access in medically underserved communities.

Structure

• Regional centers: AHEC operates through a network of regional centers affiliated with medical and health sciences schools. These centers work closely with local health providers to tailor programs to community needs.
• Partnerships: Collaborates with hospitals, clinics, schools, and community organizations to provide training and resources.

Impact

The AHEC program plays a crucial role in addressing the shortage of health care professionals in underserved areas, improving the quality of care and nurturing a more diverse health care workforce. By doing so, it helps to ensure that all communities have access to essential health services.