Seeking a shot at free clinic

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Thousands line up for wristbands that will afford them sorely needed treatment.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-free-clinic-20100426,0,1458942.story

Nearly 5,600 people lined up outside the Los Angeles Sports Arena on Sunday, many camping out in the cold on the sidewalk overnight, to claim wristbands and a chance for free dental and medical treatment at a massive health clinic this week.

"It's kind of hard to ignore," said organizer Don Manelli. "Somebody waits all night outside to see a dentist — that tells you something."

The seven-day clinic, which starts Tuesday, will include vision exams, mammograms and diabetes screening, among other services. A team of more than 300 volunteer doctors, dentists and other medical professionals each day will see patients from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

When the gates opened Sunday morning, the line for wristbands snaked around the arena and reflected the face of America's uninsured and underinsured. Most of those seeking treatment came from throughout Los Angeles County, but some drove from neighboring counties. Many were unemployed, disabled or retired. But there were also workers of all ages, some with children, who said they could not afford health insurance. Some were illegal immigrants. Most of those with insurance, including government plans, said their coverage did not include dental or eye care.