Keeping Care Within Reach in Whatcom County
When money is tight, a doctor's visit is often one of the first things people put off. A parent might wait to see if a child's ear infection clears up on its own because the bill would leave them short on rent. Sometimes it does clear up. Often the infection gets worse, a heartbreaking and preventable outcome that costs more in the long run.
Unity Care NW exists so people in Whatcom County don't have to make that choice. Anyone can get care here, whether or not they have insurance. Our sliding fee discount program sets what patients pay based on household income and size.
Our Enrollment team specializes in helping people sign up for and keep Apple Health (Medicaid) and other coverage, which has become harder as renewal requirements change. We’re committed to supporting our patients through these challenges, and to providing the care they need, no matter what. Our Enrollment team’s passion for this work is obvious, especially to the people they serve.
"Our patients give me hope," says Julia Covert, Enrollment Supervisor. "They keep coming back because they trust us. They know we will do everything we can to get them access to care."
With nearly 6,600 Unity Care NW patients at risk of losing Medicaid coverage under new paperwork requirements next year, our Enrollment team is working hard to keep every one of them covered. "Health care is bigger than just helping people right now," Covert says. "It impacts that person, and it affects the next generation's views and trust of health care."
Columbia Bank's giving reflects a similar long view. Their charitable work focuses on helping individuals, families, and small businesses who are struggling financially and on strengthening health, resilience, and connectivity in the communities they serve. As a long-time Health Care Champion Sponsor, Columbia Bank has helped make sure that getting care here doesn't have to put a household's finances at risk.
Columbia Bank's Community Giving in 2025
$11M+
Charitable Giving
$7.4M
Corporate Giving
$3.7M
In Grants and Investments through the Columbia Bank Community Impact Fund
Thank you, Columbia Bank, for helping build a healthier Whatcom County. If your business would like to help keep care within reach for your neighbors, consider becoming a Health Care Champion Sponsor.
