What is AHEC, and what does DFW AHEC do?
AHECs are multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary, community based programs designed to address the primary health care workforce needs of
medically underserved communities. AHEC staff collaborate with academic and community members to achieve results in several programmatic initiatives. AHECs focus on Medically Underserved Areas (MUAs), Health Profession Shortage Areas (HPSAs) and the disadvantaged. The DFW AHEC
is one of nine centers (see map) of the East Texas AHEC located at the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston. DFW AHEC is located
at the UT Southwestern School of Health Professions, our host institution.

The DFW AHEC serves Dallas and Tarrant Counties which have a diverse population of nearly six million people. Within two counties alone, there are two medical schools, six nursing schools, a large number of allied health programs, and approximately 50 hospitals. The DFW metroplex is home to some of the nation's most affluent communities and premiere medical institutions.

Yet a significant proportion of the community has difficulty accessing health care. One role of the DFW AHEC is to develop and implement programs that will ensure there are enough primary care and other practitioners to meet the needs of the underserved in the metroplex. We work with academic and community partners on these projects.

Click on "Program Areas" at left for more information on five areas that address our mission.

Our Vision
Optimal health for all people in our region.

Our Mission
To improve the health of our communities by developing a quality health workforce and helping address unmet health needs.