Keys Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) has rebranded its pediatric medical and dental services under the new name, Keys Kids Health Centers. This change aims to make the organization's offerings more easily understood by the community, according to CEO Michael Cunningham.

Clarity and Outreach

“When we talk about Keys Kids Health Centers, that’s pretty self-explanatory,” Cunningham told the Keys Weekly. He explained that the previous name, AHEC, often led to confusion about the organization's mission, particularly when seeking community outreach and fundraising.

The rebranding includes updated graphics and logos for informational materials, the organization's website, and its dental van. These visual updates are intended to attract the attention of parents and encourage more children to utilize AHEC's affordable healthcare services. Many dental visits are available for a nominal fee of $10.

Expanded Services and Patient Reach

Keys Kids Health Centers will continue to offer primary care, full dentistry with restorative treatment, and a new EKG program specifically for student-athletes. Cunningham noted that the new name and branding will streamline the process of accessing information about the 10 primary care centers and the dentistry program, directing individuals more directly to health center services.

During the 2024-25 school year, the organization reported significant patient engagement. The medical clinic saw 1,468 new patients, resulting in 5,965 total visits. The dental program served 899 new patients, with a total of 4,146 visits. AHEC's annual report indicates that the majority of families served are from low- to moderate-income households, many of whom may struggle to afford quality healthcare otherwise.

The report further detailed that 55.5% of patients were uninsured, while 43.7% received Medicaid benefits, highlighting the critical role Keys Kids Health Centers plays in providing accessible care to vulnerable populations in the Florida Keys. For more information on clinic availability and services, individuals can visit keysahec.org.

Continued Adult Programs

While the pediatric services are now under the Keys Kids Health Centers banner, Keys Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) will continue its existing initiatives for adults. These programs include tobacco cessation services, an opioid program, and continuing education opportunities for medical professionals. The organization emphasizes that its core mission and services for adults remain unchanged.

The shift to Keys Kids Health Centers is expected to enhance marketing efforts and facilitate conversations with potential investors, donors, and grant providers. Cunningham believes the clearer branding will make it easier to communicate the value and accessibility of their health services to the wider community. Further details about the organization's work can be found in publications like the Keys Weekly.