Southeast Tennessee Project Access proudly commemorated its 20th anniversary by honoring three remarkable individuals who have significantly contributed to the organization’s success and the health of the community. Dr. Robert Bowers and Dr. Joe Cofer each received the prestigious Founder’s Award, and Rae Young Bond was honored with the inaugural Rae Young Bond Health Leadership Award.
The 20th anniversary celebration took place recently featuring a special ceremony to honor these outstanding individuals. The event included speeches from key stakeholders, a retrospective on the organization’s achievements over the past two decades, and a look ahead to future initiatives.
Dr. Robert Bowers has been a visionary leader in the healthcare community. In 1986, as Medical Society President, Dr. Bowers led the creation of the Medical Foundation of Chattanooga, a nonprofit sister organization of the Medical Society that provided a mechanism for the Society’s charitable initiatives. Dr. Bowers served as President of the Medical Foundation until 2007 and played a critical role in developing Project Access under its auspices. Upon retiring from full-time medical practice, Dr. Bowers agreed to serve as the medical director of Volunteers in Medicine, Chattanooga, a lead primary care partner. His dedication to patient care and community service has been the cornerstone of his long and distinguished career. Southeast Tennessee Project Access was honored to present the Project Access Founder’s Award to Dr. Bowers.
Dr. Joseph Cofer has been a driving force behind the success of Project Access. As Medical Society President in 2002, Dr. Cofer sought out a model to provide more timely care for uninsured patients, discovering the Project Access model from Buncombe County, North Carolina. His passion and drive led to the creation of a physician-led partnership with hospitals to improve care for uninsured patients, recruit volunteer physicians, and oversee a strategic organizational plan. Dr. Cofer served as Project Access’ Volunteer Medical Director from 2002 to 2012 and continues to serve on the Project Access Operations Council. His work in Tennessee has inspired the creation of similar initiatives across the state. Southeast Tennessee Project Access was proud to honor Dr. Cofer with the Project Access Founder’s Award.
Rae Young Bond has been instrumental in the establishment and growth of Project Access. From its inception, Rae played a critical role in laying the groundwork, making essential connections, soliciting funds, bringing hospitals to the table, and writing the strategic plan that ensured the program’s growth and longevity. Rae’s impact extends beyond Project Access, as she has been a key player in many significant healthcare initiatives in the community, including serving as the longest-serving member of the Regional Health Council, leading the infant mortality task force, heading the COVID task force for Hamilton County, and helping create the physician wellness program Lifebridge. To honor her legacy, Southeast Tennessee Project Access proudly introduced the Rae Young Bond Health Leadership Award, which will be given annually to an individual who displays exceptional qualities and compassion in advancing community health.
Reflecting on the organization’s history, it was noted that Project Access began with early discussions about improving healthcare for low-income, uninsured neighbors. While charity care has always been a part of healthcare, Project Access organized the process, engaged more partners, and helped patients navigate their way back to health. Since the initial meeting of physician leaders and hospital CEOs in October 2002, CHI Memorial, Erlanger, and Parkridge health systems have been integral partners, with Tennova Cleveland joining in 2022 to extend the geographic reach.
Project Access has coordinated healthcare services valued at more than $233 million and provided meaningful assistance to 25,609 people in the community. The model, described as a clinic without walls, has transformed thousands of lives.
“We were thrilled to celebrate our 20th anniversary by honoring Dr. Bowers, Dr. Cofer, and Rae Young Bond,” said Dr. Harish Manyam, 2024 president of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society. “Their contributions have been invaluable, and their legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward. The Project Access story is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together for the good of our community.”
For more information about Southeast Tennessee Project Access, please visit setnprojectaccess.org or call 423-826-0269.