| | | | Community Current Issues
The NW PA AHEC serves as a community liaison for collaborative partners including local health care organizations and regional coalitions who exist to improve the quality of and access to primary health care. AHEC works with the various organizations to educate and promote healthy lifestyles and the goals of Healthy People 2010.
As part of their curriculum, health professions students are often required to perform studies of various aspects of community health. These studies can result in mechanisms and recommendations that would improve the health of the community. If you know of any project that would benefit your community, contact our office and we will find someone to assist you in that effort.
The NW PA AHEC is involved in health fairs throughout the 15-county region, as well as other activities. It acts as a source of technical assistance for the regions collaborative boards and SHIP (State Health Improvement Program) partners. The technical assistance is often supplied in the form of researching statistics and providing guidance in preparing the documentation that is submitted to the Department of Health for designation of areas as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA) or Dental Professional Shortage Areas (DHPSA).
At health fairs our staff may be seen teaching visitors how to brush their teeth, giving away dental health supplies or talking with children and adolescents about a future in health careers.
If your organization would like to request technical assistance or you would like us to participate in a health fair, please contact our office.
NW PA Area Health Education Center | 1913 West 8th Street | Erie, PA 16505 | P: 814-453-6551 | F: 814-455-4320 | |
