By Adrianne Alston, PCAN Administrative Specialist

The Primary Care Access Network (PCAN) has received national attention for its unique model that provides appropriate access to healthcare for those that are uninsured. In January 2004, PCAN was chosen to present their model during a breakout session at the 2004 Healthy Communities Access Program All Grantee Meeting, in Washington D.C. The breakout session was called "Financial Sustainability". Health and Family Services Deputy Director Pete Clarke, PCAN Administrator Margaret Brennan and Maureen Kersmarki, Director of Community Relations for Florida Hospital presented to a packed room of over 50 attendees. PCAN continues to function as a collaborative through shared resources from the 20 PCAN partners and through a distinctive infrastructure that the HCAP grant (U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services-Health Resources and Services Administration) provided. The support of Orange County Government is an integral component to the success and sustainability of PCAN, with leveraging of funds for expanding clinics in areas of need throughout the county.

Article courtesy of Orange Spiel April 2004 edition. The Orange Spiel is the Orange County employee monthly magazine.