The National Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Program was established in the U.S. in 1972 to improve the supply, distribution, retention and quality of primary care and other health practitioners in medically underserved areas. The program is part of a national effort to improve access to health services through changes in the education and training of health professionals.
New Mexico’s AHECs include the Program Office at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, the Montanas del Norte AHEC at Luna Community College in Las Vegas, the Southern AHEC (officiated with the Center for Health Innovation) in Las Cruces and FORWARD NM AHEC (also affiliated with Center for Health Innovation) in Silver City. All 33 New Mexico counties are covered by the AHEC Centers. In addition, many established community partnerships with public educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and professional organizations are critical to our success.
To contact an AHEC in your region click here.