Shaping the Future
of Rural Healthcare

Empowering students and supporting South Dakota’s healthcare workforce

—now and for generations to come.

Students

Discover your future in healthcare through hands-on experiences, shadowing, and leadership programs. From Scrubs Camps to AHEC Scholars, we’re here to guide your journey every step of the way.

Professionals

Advance your career and strengthen your impact. We offer continuing education, EMS support, and professional development designed for rural and underserved settings.

Communities

We partner with schools, clinics, EMS, and community organizations to grow a strong local workforce and improve health outcomes across South Dakota.

About us

Connecting People. Strengthening Communities. Growing the Rural Health Workforce.

Northeast South Dakota AHEC advances health in rural and underserved areas by supporting students, professionals, and communities through meaningful partnerships and innovative education. Guided by our mission, vision, and values, we are building a future where all South Dakotans have access to quality care.

Our Vision & Mission

Vision
“Facilitating the education and collaboration of the present and future healthcare workforce to promote improved health outcomes for the people of South Dakota.”

Mission
“To create and strengthen partnerships that cultivate a robust health workforce for rural and underserved communities in South Dakota.”

What We Do Best

Empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals and supporting South Dakota’s rural health workforce through innovative programs, strong partnerships, and meaningful experiences.

Scrubs Camps & Career Exploration

Hands-on learning experiences that introduce middle and high school students to careers in healthcare. From simulations to guest speakers, students discover their potential and pathways to a future in medicine, therapy, EMS, and beyond.

EMS Education & Support

We offer continuing education, instructor resources, and advocacy for rural EMS professionals. Our monthly webinars and training tools help first responders stay informed and certified while serving their communities.

Student Leadership & Rural Health Training

AHEC Scholars and the Telehealth Student Practicum (Project NEXT) prepare students for rural health careers with real-world experiences, mentorship, and interprofessional learning focused on community impact.

Investing in People.
Empowering Communities. Strengthening Rural Healthcare.

At Northeast SD AHEC, we go beyond education—we build lasting connections that shape the future of healthcare in South Dakota. Whether you’re a student exploring your calling, a provider advancing your skills, or a community looking to grow your local workforce, we’re here to support you with purpose-driven programs and meaningful partnerships.

Local Focus, Statewide Impact

Rooted in northeast South Dakota, we serve 26 counties with tailored programs that respond to community needs.

Collaboration at Our Core

We work alongside schools, health organizations, EMS, clinics, and state partners to create stronger health systems, together.

Driven by Values

Guided by Integrity, Innovation, Collaboration, Communication, Excellence, and Diversity, everything we do reflects our commitment to meaningful change.

Our Work in Numbers

Driving impact across Northeast South Dakota through education, training, and community partnerships.

For Program Year

2025

K-12 Students

+2,000

Post Secondary Students

+450

Providrs & Professionals

+ 1,970

Contact us

Have questions or want to learn more about how Northeast SD AHEC can support your educational and workforce needs? We’re here to help! Reach out anytime by phone, email, or through our website. Our team is eager to connect and provide the information and resources you need to thrive in your health career journey.