About the North Dakota AHEC

North Dakota AHEC works to strengthen education and training networks among underserved community organizations, academic institutions, and rural healthcare facilities. Our goal is to expand pathways into health careers, support workforce distribution, and improve the quality and delivery of care in rural and underserved areas across the state.

North Dakota AHEC includes two regional centers located in Mayville (Eastern) and Velva (Western), along with a program office located in the Center for Rural Health at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences.

Established in September 2008, the North Dakota AHEC consists of:

• Eastern AHEC
• Western AHEC
• State HOSA Advisor

North Dakota AHEC's Partners

The North Dakota AHEC works in close collaboration with its partners to identify areas of need, leverage financial and personnel resources, in an effort to expand existing programs, develop new programs, and reduce duplication among partners throughout the state.

• Center for Rural Health
• University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences
• Mayville State University

Background Information

The AHEC program was developed by Congress in 1971 to recruit, train, and retain health professionals committed to underserved populations. The national program was designed with the objective of eliminating Health Professional Shortage Areas. The AHEC program was designed to encourage universities and educators to look beyond their institutions and partner with communities to promote cooperative solutions with local benefits.

Our Funding

The AHEC is supported by a federal Health Services Resources Administration Bureau of Health Professions grant which requires a 1:1 federal/non-federal match, as well as state-appropriated funds.