Pierce County Project Access celebrates its 10 year anniversary this month.

While the origins of the Project Access model goes back to 1996 in Asheville, North Carolina, it wasn't until 2006 that leaders associated with the Pierce County Medical Society began discussions of implementing the program locally.

Dr. Sumner Schoenike, Dr. Paul Schneider, and past PCMS president Sue Asher are credited with approaching the local health systems in founding PCPA in 2009.

Leanne Noren was hired as the founding Executive Director and with an empty office and a telephone, began reaching out to specialty providers to participate in PCPA's Donated Care program. With her tenacity and the support of the local health systems and compassionate physicians, our Donated Care program now boasts more than 700 providers, adding primary care; a uniqueness among Project Access' around the country.

With the passage of the Affordable Care Act, many Project Access' closed as the uninsured rate plummeted. PCPA remained open and created its second program, Premium Assistance. This demonstration of innovation and flexibility ensures hope that Pierce County residents in need will always have an avenue to access care no matter the political climate and legislation that may come from DC. As long as there are compassionate individuals and the vision for innovative solutions, Project Access will remain for decades to come.

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