Alabama AHEC Network

08/04/2025

07/21/2025

Wiregrass Alabama AHEC, in partnership with Southeast Health and the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, hosted “Rural Health Outreach: Provider Education on Lupus” on July 18 in Dothan, AL.

Funded by a grant from the American College of Rheumatology, this CME-accredited session began with opening remarks from Dr. James Jones, Dean of ACOM, who emphasized the importance of preparing providers to meet the unique needs of rural communities. Dr. Ian McFadden, Director of Wiregrass Alabama AHEC, followed with a welcome and introduction for featured speaker Dr. Ariail Schmitz.

Dr. Schmitz delivered an outstanding educational session, offering evidence-based insights and practical guidance for improving lupus care in underserved areas.

We extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Schmitz for her impactful presentation, and to all who joined us—both in person and virtually—for your commitment to advancing rural health in Alabama.

Watch the WTVY News 4 coverage of the session: https://www.wtvy.com/2025/07/18/wiregrass-ahec-acom-partner-address-rural-healthcare-lupus-care/

Department of Family and Community Medicine

07/11/2025

Wiregrass Alabama AHEC, in partnership with Southeast Health and Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, invites you to a free, in-person educational session focused on improving lupus care in rural communities.

Rheumatology Conference: Rural Health Outreach – Provider Education on Lupus
Presented by: Ariail Schmitz, DO
Date: Friday, July 18, 2025
Time: 12:00–2:00 PM CST
Location: Team-Based Learning Center, 445 Health Sciences Blvd., Dothan, AL
Virtual attendance available | Lunch provided

This session, part of the American College of Rheumatology's national initiative, is designed for primary care providers, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, medical students, and other healthcare professionals committed to improving rural health outcomes.

Earn up to 1.5 CME credits (AMA PRA Category 1 & AOA 1A)
Accredited by the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine

Register here: https://www.alahec.org/cale.../wiregrassruralhealthoutreach/

Department of Family and Community Medicine

07/07/2025

Wiregrass Alabama AHEC, in partnership with Southeast Health and Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, invites you to a free, in-person educational session focused on improving lupus care in rural communities.

Rheumatology Conference: Rural Health Outreach – Provider Education on Lupus
Presented by: Ariail Schmitz, DO
Date: Friday, July 18, 2025
Time: 12:00–2:00 PM CST
Location: Team-Based Learning Center, 445 Health Sciences Blvd., Dothan, AL
Virtual attendance available | Lunch provided

This session, part of the American College of Rheumatology’s national initiative, is designed for primary care providers, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, medical students, and other healthcare professionals committed to improving rural health outcomes.

Earn up to 1.5 CME credits (AMA PRA Category 1 & AOA 1A)
Accredited by the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine

Register here: https://www.alahec.org/cale.../wiregrassruralhealthoutreach/

07/04/2025

Happy 4th of July from the Alabama AHEC Network!

Today, we celebrate the spirit of independence and the communities we proudly serve across Alabama. As we work to strengthen healthcare access and education, we’re grateful for the freedom to build a healthier future—together.

Wishing everyone a safe and joyful Independence Day!

06/23/2025

Alabama AHEC Network had an insightful time in Lexington, KY at the National AHEC Organization 2025 Biennial Conference!

It was incredible to network and share ideas across AHECs around the US! We loved trading pins and getting to know fellow AHECers! A few of our AHEC Scholars joined us at the conference, Amanda Neal, Allison Cupps, Kyra Brown, Charsade Howard, and Victoria Sexton!

Alabama AHEC had a lovely dinner at Frank & Dino's Lexington where we got to discuss what we learned so far and spend some quality time together as a team!

Looking forward to implementing some great ideas and keeping the AHEC momentum going!

North Alabama AHEC East Central Alabama Area Health Education Center Department of Family and Community Medicine

06/11/2025

Wiregrass Alabama AHEC, in partnership with Southeast Health and the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, invites you to a free, in-person educational session focused on improving lupus care in rural communities.

Rheumatology Conference: Rural Health Outreach – Provider Education on Lupus
Presented by: Ariail Schmitz, DO
Date: Friday, July 18, 2025
Time: 12:00–2:00 PM CST
Location: Team-Based Learning Center, 445 Health Sciences Blvd., Dothan, AL
Virtual attendance available | Lunch provided

This session, part of the American College of Rheumatology’s national initiative, is designed for primary care providers, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, medical students, and other healthcare professionals committed to improving rural health outcomes.

Earn up to 1.5 CME credits (AMA PRA Category 1 & AOA 1A)
Accredited by the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine

Register here: https://www.alahec.org/calendar_event/wiregrassruralhealthoutreach/

06/03/2025

June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, share resources, and support individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

At Alabama AHEC, we’re committed to promoting brain health education across our communities and encouraging early intervention, prevention strategies, and access to helpful tools.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, caregiver, or simply want to learn more, check out these trusted resources:
alz.org/al
nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers
https://alzca.org/

05/20/2025

Applications Now Open for Alabama AHEC Scholars 2025-2026 (Cohort 8 )!

Are you a graduate-level health professions student passionate about serving rural and underserved communities? Apply now to join the Alabama AHEC Scholars Program and gain hands-on training, interprofessional experience, and leadership opportunities across the state.

Apply today and shape the future of healthcare in Alabama: https://www.alahec.org/ahec-scholars-apply/

05/14/2025

Webinar Today: Sexual Health Stigmas in Alabama
May 14, 2025 | 3:00–4:00 PM

Join Black Belt Alabama AHEC for a powerful conversation led by WilNadia Murrell on the roots and impact of sexual health stigmas in Alabama. A public health advocate and UAB graduate, WilNadia brings years of experience in HIV education and outreach across the state.

This session will explore strategies for reducing stigma, promoting open dialogue, and advancing health equity—perfect for students, healthcare professionals, and community leaders.

Register today and be part of the conversation!
https://www.alahec.org/calendar_event/blackbeltwebinar6/

05/13/2025

Applications Now Open for Alabama AHEC Scholars 2025-2026 ( Cohort 8 )!

Are you a graduate-level health professions student passionate about serving rural and underserved communities? Apply now to join the Alabama AHEC Scholars Program and gain hands-on training, interprofessional experience, and leadership opportunities across the state.

Apply today and shape the future of healthcare in Alabama: https://www.alahec.org/ahec-scholars-apply/

Department of Family and Community Medicine