WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) - Wednesday people from all over the DC metro area with no health insurance turned out at the Washington Convention Center to see a doctor and get medical attention for free.
The National Association of Free Clinics turned the convention center into a massive doctor's office. Early estimates show the clinic saw as many as 1300 patients.
One patient we talked to was Evelyn Jones who brought her children with her. They patiently waited to take advantage of the services offered because her husband lost his job.
"It was just a wonderful opportunity to get healthcare for my children while we are in this transition of not having insurance," Evelyn said "This is a good time because they can have this as a school physical."
Without insurance, the back-to-school necessity can cost a hundred bucks per child.
Then there was Tony Kane from FairfaxVirginia. He too had fallen on tough times and the free clinic couldn't have come at a better moment.
"I don't have health insurance so I can't really afford to go see a doctor. I've been out of work for a while. My son was diagnosed with cancer in February so it's been hard to work being that I'm traveling a lot for his treatments. "
Only two weeks before the clinic Tony tried to get in to see his doctor. But just the visit alone would have started at a hundred dollars and that was not including lab work. All of the services he received at the clinic were free. He was able to get a physical and blood tests to check his cholesterol and hemoglobin.
Tony told us, "I'm very grateful it's a great thing that they are doing this today. I'm amazed almost. I'm in a situation where I needed it. "
All the workers including the medical professionals at the clinic were volunteers. Dr. Rani Whitfield came from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He decided to donate his service here in DC after being part of another free clinic in New Orleans.
"You know the statistics in DC about 52 thousand are uninsured or under insured and they needed the help," said Dr. Whitfield. "So I wanted to come and be a part and it's turned out great and I am having fun."
We checked around and the cost for the services Tony and Evelyn received can really add up. A kid's physical can set you back a hundred dollars, and this does not include immunizations. And an adult physical could cost between $250 to $300 depending on the blood work and other tests needed.
The clinic was only for one day but the National Association of Free Clinics has places around the area where uninsured people can go and receive free care.