Watch CBS News

Thousands Camping Out For Free Medical Treatment At Cal Expo Clinic

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - Thousands of people are about to get free health care. When you consider the skyrocketing cost of medical care today, it's a deal some families can't refuse. And, even thought they're in line, some might not get the care they need.

Corina Jones, her son and her mother pitched a tent and are waiting for the care they so desperately seek.

"…extractions, fillings and a cleaning," said Corina.

Corina needs to see a dentist, and said the pain is bad. "It's worse than contractions, it is," she said.

She has Medical, but without dental coverage she won't have a long-term fix. "I've just been going to the emergency room to get pain medicine and antibiotics, but can never take care of the problem," she said.

As for her mother, Elizabeth Villalpando, she's here to see a doctor.

"I have a rash on my skin that burns and it itches really bad on and off; it comes and goes," said Elizabeth.

Elizabeth is unemployed; and without health insurance, she's forced to put up with the problem. Her family is like so many others that are unable to get the care they need.

"It's pretty serous especially when I'm in pain and I cry like a big old baby," said Corina.

Remote Area Medical (RAM) will provide free dental, vision, and medical services to Sacramento area residents Friday through Monday at a volunteer-run clinic at the Cal Expo. All services are free of charge and will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis with around 1,200 people expected to be served each day of the clinic.

Numbers will be distributed to patients starting at 3:30 a.m. on Friday and doors will open to patients at 5:30 a.m. The clinic will run until about 6 p.m. each day. All services will be provided by California-licensed volunteer health-care practitioners.

The event will take place in and around Buildings C and D at the Cal Expo.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.