Since Project Access enrolled the first patient in April 2004, care has been provided to nearly 7,500 uninsured Hamilton County residents. Through it, doctors, hospitals, and health centers work together to meet the health care needs of the uninsured. The Hamilton County program is recognized nationally and has helped communities in several states start their own volunteer physician networks. Project Access patients say the program makes a huge difference in their lives, including saving some from potential blindness, paralysis, or even death.
Since its inception, the Project Access Community Health Partnership has coordinated more than $76.2 million in donated health care services. About 40% of enrollees are employed, but many have been laid off or have health conditions that make them unable to work. Remarkably, Project Access had a 31 to 1 return on investment — every $1 spent to manage the program resulted in $31 of donated care in 2010. The program has maintained stable program costs, even while dramatically increasing the amount of care provide. Doctors and hospitals have always provided charity care, but the care coordination Project Access provides makes the process much more efficient.
Project Access By The Numbers:
April 2004-November 2011
- $78.4 Million — Value of free health care provided to uninsured Hamilton County residents through Project Access since April 2004
- 31:1 Return on Investment — Each $1 spent to run the program resulted in $31 of donated care in 2010
- 620 — Volunteer physicians currently participating
- 11,297 — People screened to determine eligibility
- 7,486 — Individuals who have received medical care
- 350 — Average number of patients enrolled in any given month
- 6,971 — People who did not qualify for the program but were referred to other appropriate community resources and programs
- 17% Now Insured — The percentage of former PA patients who have obtained health insurance coverage
- 38% Better Health — Former patients who rated their health status as good, very good or excellent compared to 29% before care
- 39% Fewer Physical Restrictions — Former PA patients who said they now have little to no restrictions on activities compared to 26% prior to care
- 38% No Limitations on Daily Work — Former PA patients who reported little to no limitations on daily work inside or outside the home due to physical problems compared to 30% prior to care
$10,013,190: Economic Impact of Donated Care
According to a regional economic analysis, charity services given away at hospitals and physician offices generate jobs and labor income. In order to provide these services, supplies must be purchased and utilities and staff must be paid. The ripple effect in Hamilton County’s economy is significant. $76.2 million of Donated care (as of September 2011) generated 215 indirect jobs and 43 induced jobs for a total of 258 jobs.
- Indirect Labor Income – $8,441,831
- Induced Labor Income – $1,571,359
- Total – $10,013,190
