Community Health Association of Spokane, which does business as CHAS Health, has experienced increased growth in patient volume, visits, workforce, and access to care in the past several years, including through the recent additions of mobile clinics and school-based health centers to meet the changing needs of the community.

CHAS Health is a Federally Qualified Health Center that was founded in 1994 as a two-exam-room medical clinic in downtown Spokane. Today, the nonprofit serves over 126,000 patients in the Inland Northwest from 29 clinic locations. It provides comprehensive medical, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy services to patients of all ages, regardless of their insurance status.  

With a staff of over 1,800, CHAS Health has developed several workforce programs, including two residency programs, three earn-as-you-learn apprenticeship programs, staff development programs with career-ladder opportunities, and continuing education for patients and the community.

In what ways would you quantify the organization’s growth in recent years? CHAS Health has seen a 24% growth in patient volumes, including 45% growth in visits, since 2022. To meet that growing demand, the employee count has increased 20%, including a 38% increase in clinical providers over that same period. We now serve 1 in 5 people living in Spokane County and surrounding counties and communities.

Has the organization overcome any obstacles in the past year? If so, what were they, and how did you do it? There have been many changes to the health care landscape over the past year, including legislative changes to the Medicaid program, which impacts 52% of CHAS Health's patient population, that will come to fruition over the next year. We address challenges through remaining focused on our mission and our core values — especially remaining patient-centered and entrepreneurial in our planning.

How has the organization adapted or innovated in the past year? We are in the process of implementing an innovative team-based care model across all primary care locations to support improved patient experience and outcomes while increasing efficiency and access within the clinics. Team-based care is a care delivery model where patients are supported by a coordinated pod including their primary care provider team as well as clinical pharmacists, care team registered nurses, and behavioral health providers.

Survey responses may have been edited for length and clarity.