AHEC West: 50 Years of Growing Healthcare Talent

AHEC West is celebrating 50 years of providing essential educational programs and resources for Western Maryland. The organization focuses on a "grow your own" model, aiming to attract students to the region and encourage them to establish medical practices locally after completing their training. This initiative has proven successful, with many former students returning to serve as healthcare providers.

Programs offered by AHEC West include clinical education, AHEC Scholars, community health worker training, and the Exploring Careers in Health Occupations (ECHO) program. The ECHO program, developed by Program Director Joy Taylor, allows high school students to explore various healthcare fields. Clinical education is a collaboration with the University of Maryland's medical school, offering four-week rotations with local preceptors.

Physician Jared Mathews and physician assistant Emma Reed exemplify AHEC West's impact, both returning to practice in Western Maryland after participating in its programs. They now serve as preceptors, continuing the cycle of mentorship. AHEC West provides free housing in Allegany, Washington, and Garrett Counties to support students and professionals choosing to practice in underserved rural areas.