Health
The Health sector stands among the Inland Empire/Desert Regional Consortium’s (IEDRC) highest regional workforce priorities. Serving Riverside and San Bernardino counties, IEDRC’s health initiatives are strategically designed to prepare students for career opportunities in nursing, allied health, behavioral health, and emerging areas like telehealth. These programs address the region’s critical healthcare workforce needs while promoting equitable access and student success.
Leadership & Coordination
The IEDRC Health initiative is led by Wendy Deras, Director of Regional Health Initiatives, based at College of the Desert. Wendy coordinates regional health-related strategies, supports academic program implementation, and leads collaboration across colleges and industry partners.
Newsletters
The IE Health Newsletter keeps our region up to date with the latest in healthcare legislation, news from college health programs, upcoming conferences, and educational opportunities. Stay informed and connected with the Inland Empire Desert’s healthcare community!
Healthcare Labor Market Reports
The Inland Empire/Desert Center of Excellence has provided the region’s community colleges with labor market data to support program creation in many health care areas. These reports are a resource for understanding the region’s workforce needs for specific healthcare occupations.
For comprehensive labor market information, presentations, and meeting minutes for advisory meetings, see Regional Advisories.
Visit the Centers of Excellence webpage for additional regional and state-wide labor market information.

Regional Advisories
Regional healthcare advisories provide participants with valuable information they can bring back to their schools to support program growth. These informative meetings offer insights to help determine whether starting a new program is the right decision. Additionally, they ensure that attendees are aware of current industry needs and have a clear understanding of occupational and industry trends and opportunities.
- Pharmacy Technician Flyer (November 17, 2025)
- PsychTech_Regional Advisory August 11
- ADN (Associate Degree of Nursing) Flyer
- Nursing Assistant Flyer
- Perioperative Flyer (Sterile Processing, Surgical Technician, Anesthesiology Technician)
- Phlebotomy Tech Flyer
- Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)Flyer
- Vocational Nursing Flyer
Professional Development
Professional development opportunities designed for health care professionals and community college educators focus on enhancing skills, staying informed on industry trends, and fostering collaboration between the education and health care sectors. These programs aim to equip participants with the tools and knowledge needed to improve instructional methods, address workforce demands, and support the health and well-being of both students and professionals.
Upcoming Events
No upcoming events. Please check back.
Curriculum
Regional health care programs offer comprehensive curricula designed to prepare students for successful careers in the medical field. Whether learners are entering the field or advancing their careers, our curriculum is aligned with industry standards to meet the growing demands of the healthcare workforce.
- Nursing Assistant HWI 2018
- Central Sterile Processing
- Surgical Technician
- Community Health Worker
- Home Health 40-hour curriculum
Helpful Links
DACUMS
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