Building Healthier Communities Through Education, Connection, and Service

The Texas AHEC East – Northeast Region, hosted by the University of Texas at Tyler Health Science Center, is dedicated to strengthening the healthcare workforce and improving access to care across Northeast Texas. Through partnerships with schools, health systems, and community organizations, we deliver innovative training programs, professional development, and public health initiatives that empower both students and professionals to make a lasting impact in the communities they serve.
Our mission is to connect education with practice—bridging the gap between healthcare training and community need through collaboration, compassion, and commitment to health access.
Our Programs
High School Pre-Health Conference at UT Tyler
An annual event designed to inspire and prepare the next generation of health professionals. Students explore a wide range of health career pathways through interactive sessions, presentations, and mentorship opportunities.
For more information, contact mhalbrook@uttyler.edu
A Team V Coalition Host – ATV Safety Education
Through this partnership (formerly the Texas Healthy Adolescent Initiative grant), the AHEC Northeast Region helps promote ATV safety awareness and injury prevention among youth and families.
Learn more about Texas ATV Laws and Roadway Rules on YouTube
Mental Health First Aid Training
This DSHS-certified training provides 8 contact hours of continuing education (CEU) for Community Health Workers (CHWs). Participants gain the skills to recognize and respond to signs of mental health and substance-use challenges.
For more information, contact CHWtraining@uthct.edu
Princeton Review Partnership
Through a special collaboration with The Princeton Review, the AHEC Northeast Region offers discounted test preparation courses for students pursuing careers in healthcare. Available programs include the MCAT, NCLEX-RN, DAT, and GRE.
For details, email ahecnortheastregion@uthct.edu
ADEA Bridging Pathways to Oral Health Careers Program
The ADEA Bridging Pathways to Oral Health Careers Program is a national initiative designed to inspire the next generation of oral health professionals by introducing high school students to careers in dentistry through engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Hosted by the UT Tyler Center for Community and Rural Health Education – Texas AHEC East-Northeast Region, this free program allows students ages 14–18 to explore a variety of dental careers while participating in interactive activities such as using dental instruments, creating tooth and gum models, and learning directly from oral health professionals.
Through this unique experience, students gain valuable insight into educational pathways, career opportunities, and the important role oral health professionals play in improving community health. The program is especially focused on increasing awareness of oral health careers among students from rural and underserved communities and helping build the future healthcare workforce in East Texas.
AHEC Connections
AHEC Connections is a virtual educational series offered bimonthly by the UT Tyler Center for Community and Rural Health Education. Sessions highlight regional resources, professional development opportunities, and community health topics relevant to East Texas.
Join our mailing list and stay connected for updates on:
- Upcoming CEUs and AHEC Connections sessions
- Health workforce conferences and open CHW positions
- New educational resources and events
Community Health Worker (CHW) Training & Certification
A Community Health Worker (CHW) is a trusted frontline public health professional who bridges the gap between communities and healthcare systems. Through strong relationships and cultural understanding, CHWs improve access to services and enhance the quality and cultural competence of care (American Public Health Association).
The University of Texas at Tyler Health Science Center is a state-certified CHW Training Center, offering:
- A 16-week, 100% online CHW Certification Course
- A wide range of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for CHWs and CHW instructors
The course follows a structured schedule with 2–3 virtual sessions throughout and focuses on the nine DSHS Core Competency Skills:
1. Communication
2. Interpersonal Skills and Relationship Building
3. Service Coordination and Navigation Skills
4. Capacity Building
5. Advocacy
6. Teaching and Education Skills
7. Organizational Skills
8. Knowledge of Specific Health Issues
9. Evaluation and Research Skills
Upon completion, graduates gain access to statewide collaborations, research opportunities, and apprenticeship programs through the UT Tyler Health Science Center—along with ongoing CHW CEUs to maintain certification. Learn more about the Community Health Worker Training Center.
Meet the Director
Kim Bush
Director
11937 U.S. Hwy. 271
Tyler, TX 75708-3154