In 1988, two technologists who believed continuing education was a cornerstone for radiologic technologists decided to create Advanced Health Education Center. Dissatisfied by the lack of education provided to RT’s and the slow bureaucratic approval process for new educational programs, Marilyn Sackett, MEd, RT(R), FASRT and Brenda Arnett, RT(R) wanted to create a company that can provide career enhancement and new education opportunities to RT’s.
For 35 years, AHEC has continued to grow and provide quality education to rad techs all over the country and the world. The first program created by AHEC was focused on ultrasound to address the shortage in the 1980s. The participants spent 6 weeks in the classroom and lab before heading to facilities in small and rural towns to scan. After the success of the first class, AHEC added mammography, CT, MRI, and more technology to the curriculum.
Career advancement goes hand in hand with continuing education, so in 1995, AHEC created a staffing division to supply career opportunities for technologists. MEDRelief Staffing became a leading provider in the local market and has since expanded to include nursing, respiratory, ancillary, and travel staffing. Every employee staffed through MEDRelief receives free continuing education from AHEC.
Throughout the years, AHEC has been an innovative leader in the continuing education segment. We sought to provide education to all sectors of the industry, and AHEC was able to win multiple government contracts and provide training for Nuclear Regulatory Commission inspectors. By 1997, AHEC recruited faculty from across the United States and brought professional education seminars to 40 states. In 1998, AHEC was accredited by the American Council on Continuing Medical Education to train physicians and award Category 1 CME. It was the first private facility to gain such recognition.
AHEC’s goals have always been to provide education and keep technologists updated with new technology and regulations. When the MQSA was implemented, AHEC became a provider of accreditation, consultation and planning. Clients could now receive consulting and help from AHEC to improve their diagnostic quality, fix accreditation issues and paperwork, provide hands on positioning workshops at their sites, and much more. In 2015, AHEC broadcasted its first webinar to provide a new, more convenient way for healthcare professionals to receive their continuing education. We continually strive to stay abreast new technology and provide quality and relevant material.
To further technologist education and career advancement, in 2001, AHEC began a scholarship program. The very first program sponsored 12 technologists for fellowships that ranged from two months to eight months. Since then, Marilyn Sackett has continued to give back to the community and help bring new technologists to the workforce. Recently, AHEC was a proud partner of GROW! Mammography Scholarship, which grants full-ride scholarships to rad techs who wish to cross-train into mammography.
As an award-winning organization, AHEC continues to strive for perfection. Each year, AHEC provides support and training to healthcare professionals all over the world. In the future, we will continue to provide opportunities for healthcare professionals to advance their careers and acquire their continuing education. Even with new changes, such as CQR requirements, AHEC will be a pioneer in offering new courses and ways for professionals to complete their education. Our success lies wholly with our hardworking employees and our loyal customers. Thank you for letting us serve you for 35 years, and AHEC will proudly continue to provide you with quality training and courses.
