Project Access Northwest is proud to announce its expansion into Eastern Washington, with a focus on Spokane—marking another major milestone in our mission to improve access to care for underserved communities across the state.
This next phase of growth comes through a powerful partnership: MultiCare Health System is joining forces with Project Access Northwest to support the Cascade Care Sponsorship Program. This initiative helps qualifying low-income individuals pay their monthly health insurance premiums—an essential step in ensuring that coverage remains uninterrupted.
At the core of this expansion is our Premium Assistance model—a proven approach that helps individuals who are eligible to purchase insurance through the Washington Health Benefit Exchange secure and maintain their coverage. When people have insurance, they’re far more likely to access care at the right time and in the right setting, rather than relying on emergency departments or costly interventions after their health has worsened. It’s a win for patients, providers, and the entire health care system.
“At Project Access Northwest, we believe that access to health care should never hinge on whether someone can afford their insurance premium,” explains Gary Renville, President and CEO of Project Access Northwest. “Our expansion into Eastern Washington and partnership with MultiCare represents a shared commitment to health equity and prevention. When we invest in helping people maintain coverage, we’re not just avoiding costly emergencies—we’re empowering healthier communities.”
Our expansion into Eastern Washington and partnership with MultiCare represents a shared commitment to health equity and prevention. When we invest in helping people maintain coverage, we’re not just avoiding costly emergencies—we’re empowering healthier communities.
—Gary Renville, President and CEO, Project Access Northwest
For many Washingtonians, a single unexpected expense can result in a missed premium payment—and a loss of insurance coverage. Under current Exchange rules, if premiums go unpaid for 90 days, the coverage is canceled. Our program steps in before that happens, making payments on behalf of individuals and families to ensure they continue receiving the care they need.
Through this partnership, we anticipate providing coverage for up to 70 MultiCare patients enrolled in Cascade Care.
Enrollment will take place during the Open Enrollment Period, from November 1, 2025, through January 15, 2026. Individuals may also qualify outside of that window due to life-changing events—such as job loss or an income change that impacts Medicaid eligibility.
This expansion isn’t just about geography—it’s about impact. By bringing our services to Eastern Washington and partnering with trusted providers like MultiCare, we are reaching more individuals and families with the tools and support they need to live healthier lives.
About MultiCare Health System
MultiCare is a not-for-profit health care organization based in Tacoma, Washington, and was founded in 1882. It provides services at dozens of locations, including hospitals and clinics across the Puget Sound and Eastern Washington regions