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Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about the structure, funding, and impact of the Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) network across the United States.
Q Do all AHECs perform the same type of work?
All AHECs share the core mission of recruiting, training, and retaining a healthcare workforce for rural and underserved areas, but they maintain the flexibility to adapt to their local communities. While all AHECs facilitate clinical placements and run the AHEC Scholars program, individual centers customize their pathway curriculums and continuing education topics to match regional needs.
Q Which states currently do not have AHEC programs?
States and territories without active AHEC programs include Iowa, Kansas, Delaware, Minnesota, Mississippi, and Wyoming.
Q How does a state or institution establish a new AHEC?
To establish a new program, an accredited medical school or school of nursing within that state must apply for and be awarded the federal Area Health Education Center grant administered by HRSA.
Q How are AHEC programs funded?
All AHEC program offices receive federal funding (often via HRSA Title VII grants), and the majority secure matching state funding. In addition, local centers regularly secure local grants, private foundation funding, and service contracts.
Q What is the difference between an AHEC Program Office and an AHEC Center?
Program offices are typically located within academic universities (such as schools of medicine or nursing) and receive the primary federal award. They contract with and support local AHEC Centers, which are regional offices that implement the practical hands-on training and pipeline activities within specific counties.
Q How many employees does an average AHEC Center have?
While staffing sizes vary from 1 to over 100 depending on region and budget, a typical regional center operates with a lean and efficient staff of four to eight people.
Q Are AHECs independent 501(c)(3) organizations?
Many regional AHEC centers are independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with local advisory boards. Others are 'hosted' by partner institutions, such as community colleges, hospitals, public health departments, or regional universities.
Q Do AHECs provide direct patient care?
No. AHECs do not operate clinics or provide direct patient care. Instead, they focus on health career exploration, clinical training placements for students, and continuing education to support the workforce that delivers care.
Q Do AHECs offer continuing professional education?
Yes. Providing accredited continuing education (CE) is a core function of AHEC. It ensures that rural and underserved healthcare practitioners stay connected to evidence-based practices and maintain licensing requirements.
Q Do AHECs conduct community health needs assessments?
Yes, many centers conduct or support local needs assessments. Because AHECs are deeply embedded in their communities, they are trusted resources for securing regional health data and building collaborative solutions.
Still have questions?
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