Service Learning

Service learning combines the experience of community service with the benefits of academic study and personal reflection. By exposing students to real-life issues and solutions, students gain valuable insight into their future careers. Service learning is extensively used by AHEC as a means to accomplish educational objectives for health professions students while delivering services to underserved populations. 2.3 million Floridians live in health professions shortage areas. An additional 608 primary care physicians are needed to meet their basic health care needs. By 2020, Florida will need 61,000 more nurses than are currently projected to be available. 56 percent of Florida medical students chose primary care residency programs from 2004-2006. The national average is 38 percent. Only 61 percent of medical residents remained in Florida after completing their residency programs. Just 20 percent of Florida MDs graduated from medical schools in Florida.