Seattle - King county clinic offers free medical, dental, vision care for four days

Over 100 dental stations are set up in Key Arena
Photo courtesy Seattle - King County Public Health

For people who struggle to access or afford health care, the Seattle / King county pop-up clinic is a godsend.

For four days, Thursday through Saturday, September 20–23, 2018 at Seattle Center, all medical services are free.

All are welcome regardless of income, insurance, or immigration status. Patients will not be asked for documentation of any type.

Here is what is offered:

• Dental: fillings, extractions, x-rays, deep cleanings
• Vision: vision screening, complete eye exams, reading glasses and prescription eyeglasses. Bring a current eyeglass prescription (no older than one year) to skip exam and just get eyeglasses.
• Medical: physical exams, lab tests, mammograms, x-rays, ultrasounds, EKGs, immunizations, and more
• Resources: social work, help with health insurance, and more

There is no advance registration. People are served on a first-come, first-served basis. Many camp out overnight to be sure to get a place for the next day.

A tent at Fisher Pavilion at Seattle Center (corner of 2nd Ave N and Thomas St) opens for shelter at 12:30am for those who choose to get in line early.

At 5am numbered tickets are distributed: one ticket per person, good for that day only. At 6:30am patients enter the Clinic in KeyArena in order of the number on ticket.

The highest demand is for tickets on Saturday and Sunday.

You cannot get both dental and vision care on the same day. You may attend the Clinic for multiple days, but must go through the ticket process each day.

There is free parking - 1st Ave Garage (220 1st Ave N) or Mercer St. Garage (650 3rd Ave N)

Interpreters are available.

How should patients prepare?

• Come prepared for a long day with food, comfortable clothing and any daily medications
• DO NOT fast for lab tests.
• No pets except service animals. Pet sitting is available.

More information is available on the website, send an email, or phone 206-684-7200.

SKCClinic@seattlecenter.org

Seattle/King County Clinic organizers anticipate more than 100 health care organizations and thousands of licensed health care professionals and support volunteers will treat close to 4,000 people Thursday through Sunday.

The clinic began in 2014 and is staffed by medical professionals volunteering their time and skills.