During a recent city council meeting, Danielle Gorman, Community Development Administrator at Peninsula Community Health Services (PCHS), delivered an inspiring presentation highlighting the organization's extensive healthcare initiatives and community impact. Gorman, who has dedicated over a decade to PCHS, shared her personal journey from a challenging past to her current role, emphasizing the importance of accessible healthcare for underserved populations.

PCHS has expanded significantly since its inception, growing from four sites in 2012 to 44 locations across Kitsap, Mason, and Pierce counties. Gorman noted the organization's commitment to adaptability and resilience, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when they maintained vital services through innovative approaches.

The organization offers a wide range of services, including medical, dental, and behavioral health care, with a focus on accessibility. Gorman highlighted the introduction of mobile clinics and extended hours to accommodate patients' needs. PCHS also provides a sliding scale for payments, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent individuals from receiving care.

In addition to clinical services, PCHS engages in community outreach, offering programs such as school-based health clinics and partnerships with local organizations to enhance service delivery. Gorman mentioned the establishment of a new children's clinic to fill gaps left by a recent pediatric provider closure, further demonstrating PCHS's commitment to comprehensive care.

The meeting underscored PCHS's dedication to not only treating health issues but also addressing social determinants of health through community advocacy and education. Gorman concluded her presentation by sharing future plans, including the opening of a medical respite facility and a mobile mammogram service, aimed at further improving access to healthcare in the region.