The Origins of Project Access
KCMS’s ability to collaborate has been critical to its success. One notable collaboration began over 20 years ago when KCMS was crucial in launching Project Access Northwest. In 2002, KCMS joined local partner agencies to explore ways to help low-income and uninsured patients access specialty care.
This group explored the possibility of starting an independent non-profit relying on a network of volunteer providers and donated hospital services to meet patient needs in King County.
King County Project Access was launched in 2006 with funding from KCMS and strong community support. Its innovative model of charity care proved successful, the number of volunteer providers and hospital partners steadily grew, and soon the organization expanded its service area to include Snohomish and Kitsap counties.
TODAY Project Access Northwest coordinated over 62,000 patient appointments, supported by 1,750 volunteer providers and all regional primary health care centers.
Even with the Affordable Care Act, many vulnerable members of our community struggle to access care. Project Access Northwest remains committed to improving community health through innovative programs that connect these patients to the vital healthcare services they need. In 2021, Project Access Northwest relocated its office to the KCMS building — where it all began!
Can you help provide high-quality mental health care to the vulnerable?
Project Access helps uninsured and underinsured individuals in their service area referred by primary care professionals gain access to the right mental health professional to meet their needs. Please click below if you or anyone you know is interested in learning more about their Pro Bono Counseling program.
