CUMBERLAND, MD — May 12, 2026 — Chris Nickerson, CEO of WellCheck, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of AHEC West, effective March 1, 2026.
Nickerson joins the board at a pivotal time for AHEC West, as the nonprofit marks 50 years of advancing healthcare access, workforce development, and community health across Western Maryland. His appointment brings a critical business and technology perspective to the nonprofit’s leadership, supporting its efforts to modernize infrastructure, improve care access and coordination, and deliver measurable outcomes across the region.
AHEC West is part of the federal Area Health Education Center program, which is focused on improving access to quality healthcare through education, training, and community partnerships, particularly in rural and underserved communities. In Western Maryland, the organization plays a central role in building and connecting the healthcare ecosystem, from workforce pipeline development to community-based services.
Nickerson’s addition to the board reflects a focus on technology integration and data-driven solutions into this ecosystem. As CEO of WellCheck, he leads the development of a digital platform designed to strengthen care coordination, streamline referrals, and connect individuals to critical health and social services—capabilities that are increasingly essential in rural communities facing provider shortages and access gaps.
“AHEC West is doing critical work to bring together partners across the region to strengthen access to care and build a more connected healthcare ecosystem,” said Nickerson. “I’m excited to support that mission and contribute a perspective rooted in technology, measured outcomes, and scalable infrastructure. There’s a tremendous opportunity to expand access to services and continue growing this platform in ways that truly meet the needs of Western Maryland communities.”
“We are thrilled that Chris is joining our Board of Directors,” said AHEC West Executive Director Melissa Clark. “WellCheck has been a strong, conscientious technology partner, thanks in no small part to Chris’s leadership and efforts. As AHEC West celebrates 50 years of impact, this is an exciting time to help shape what comes next. Having Chris on our board will certainly help strengthen our efforts to improve the health of all in Western Maryland.”
In his role on the board, Nickerson will help support AHEC West’s ongoing efforts to enhance workforce development initiatives, strengthen partnerships across healthcare and community organizations, and advance innovative approaches to care delivery. His experience working with health systems, public health agencies, and community-based organizations across the country will provide valuable insight as AHEC West continues to evolve its model and impact.
The Board appointment also underscores a broader alignment between WellCheck and AHEC West around advancing health equity, improving access in rural regions, and building sustainable infrastructure to support long-term community health outcomes.
About AHEC West
Established in 1976, AHEC West is part of the federal Area Health Education Center network, dedicated to improving access to quality healthcare through workforce development, education, and community partnerships. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Appalachian counties in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, AHEC West strengthens the healthcare pipeline, supports providers, and connects communities to essential services in these rural and underserved areas. To learn more, visit https://ahecwest.org/.
About WellCheck
WellCheck is a digital health platform designed to improve care coordination and connect individuals to health and social services through a closed-loop referral system. By enabling real-time communication, data sharing, and measurable outcomes, WellCheck supports healthcare organizations, public health agencies, and community partners in delivering more efficient, equitable care—particularly in rural and underserved communities. To learn more, visit https://www.wellcheck.us/.
