In 1978, AHEC was initiated in Ohio to promote primary care practice and to educate allied health students about the needs of medically underserved populations. AHEC supports undergraduate and graduate medical, nursing and allied health education. The Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine (NEOUCOM) participates with the six other Ohio medical schools in implementing the AHEC Program. AHEC serves 14 counties in northeastern Ohio.

The AHEC Program is linked through three community-based centers; the Eastern Ohio Area Health Education Center, the Summit Portage Area Health Education Center and the Canton Regional Area Health Education Center. The Centers plan and develop educational programs based on their assessment of local resources, health personnel needs and the interest of each community.

In addition to medical education, the Centers have developed undergraduate and graduate clinical-based education programs in nursing and allied health with the University of Akron, Kent State University and Youngstown State University.

 Mission 

To improve availability of health care professionals and enhance access to quality health care through academic and community collaboration, focusing on underserved areas.

Goals

·         Provide clinical experience for health care students in underserved communities.

·         Provide continuing education for health professionals.

·         Recruit students into health careers with an emphasis on underserved populations.

·         Provide health promotion and disease prevention programs.

·         Network with agencies on statewide projects.

Program Model

A National Network for Community-Based Primary Care Health Professions Education