Frequently Asked Questions

+ What does AHEC stand for?

Area Health Education Centers

+ What is an AHEC?

AHEC is a federally funded Title VII program that was developed by Congress in 1971 with the mission to recruit, educate, and retain a health professions workforce committed to underserved populations. Learn more about Indiana AHEC on our About Us page.

+ Who funds Indiana AHEC?

Indiana AHEC is funded by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), the Indiana State Department of Health, and local funds.

+ Why is data collected by Indiana Area Health Education Centers (AHEC)?

The Indiana AHEC Network is required to report general demographic information about participants as part of our state and federal grant compliance. We use collected email addresses in order to continue to connect with you so that we can share upcoming AHEC and related health workforce-related opportunities, events, and news.

+ What if I do not want to receive email outreach from AHEC? How can I indicate that request?

You have two ways to let us know you do not want to hear from the Indiana AHEC Network: If you are already received emails from us: Any individual who receives emails from the Indiana AHEC Network has the ability to “opt out” by unsubscribing through a link at the bottom of every email sent. If you have not received emails from us: Any individual participating in an Indiana-AHEC supported program has the option to “opt into” email communication from the AHEC Network office by indicating this on the required program participation form.

+ Who will have access to my data?

Data collected on the program forms ensures that your confidentially maintained and will be referenced periodically to evaluate the effectiveness of AHEC services and programs and provide ongoing communications around AHEC-related health workforce development content. Both the Indiana AHEC Network data warehouse and the Constant Contact ensures security and privacy of your information.

+ What is the AHEC Scholars Program?

AHEC Scholars is a national program that takes place over two years. It is designed to improve a health profession student's practice readiness skillset. The AHEC Scholars program is intended for students who have a strong interest in providing care to those living in rural and medically underserved communities across Indiana in positions such as physicians, physician assistants, nurses, public health practitioners, respiratory therapists, physical therapists and other allied health occupations.

Learn more about Scholars on our AHEC Scholars page.

+ How long has AHEC been active in the state of Indiana?

Indiana AHEC was established in 2001 starting with the West Central Indiana AHEC, and has since grown to eight regional centers.

+ How do I become connected as a preceptor for students in my clinic?

Reach out to us! If you would like to become a preceptor for AHEC, you can contact us. You can also find out more information on our preceptor page.

+ I want to participate in a clinical rotation through AHEC – how do I do that?

You can contact the AHEC in the region you are interested in completing the clinical rotation. Not sure which region you are looking for? Contact the program office and we will help you figure out which region to contact.

+ What types of programs do you offer for middle school and high school students?

Our regional centers offer many programs for students! From summer camps to shadowing opportunities, they offer a wide range of educational activities and support for middle school and high school students. Check out more information on our Student page.

+ I’m a practicing health professional. How does AHEC support or work with health professionals?

AHEC work and supports practicing health professionals throughout the regions in different ways. AHECs offer continuing education through professional conferences and events, support simulation training, and promote faculty developments for those who are interested in serving as a clinical preceptor for students.

+ How do I connect with my local AHEC?

Check out our regional centers pages!