American Indian Health - Area Health Education Center (AIH-AHEC)

The University of Arizona Area Health Education Center (AzAHEC) Program has partnered with the Arizona Advisory Council on Indian Health Care to develop a new center that focuses on Arizona’s American Indian health system and its workforce.

Building an American Indian Health AHEC Model

In collaboration with the San Carlos Apache Healthcare Corporation (SCAHC) and Gila River Health Care (GRHC), the American Indian Health-Area Health Education Center (AIH-AHEC) has implemented educational and training activities that will improve the availability and sustainability of healthcare professionals within their respective communities.  AIH-AHEC program activities include Community Based Experiential Training (CBET) for college students in health-related disciplines; youth pathway healthcare activities for grades K-12; continuing professional education for healthcare providers working in tribal communities; and a community immersion program for graduate students in healthcare fields. Working in tandem with tribal communities enhances the AIH-AHEC mission by providing opportunities and experiences for future health care professionals in tribal communities.

The AIH-AHEC addresses regional needs that have been identified by focusing on supporting American Indian healthcare systems. The AIH-AHEC assists IHS hospitals and clinics to nurture a future healthcare workforce by assisting with continuing education, supporting health care staff, and promoting healthcare careers for K-12.  Additionally, the AIH-AHEC focuses on improving the health professional shortage areas throughout Arizona. The AIH-AHEC and tribal partners will embrace the “Grow Our Own” strategy, which is a favorable method towards increasing the number of healthcare workers, while developing sustainability of the health care workforce in American Indian communities. "Growing our own" focuses on training and mentoring individuals to become health care professionals who will return to their tribal communities.

The AIH-AHEC works with all 22 recognized Tribes in Arizona in an effort to promote its available services and programs. The AIH-AHEC developed its three-year strategic plan which serves as a guide for the program’s future progression. 

For more Information on the American Indian Health - Area Health Education Center (AIH-AHEC) visit the website at americanindianhealth-ahec.az.gov.