Free pop-up clinic in Seattle sees surge of demand on its first day

Usually Thursday is the slow day. But this year at the annual free health clinic hosted at the Seattle Center, people started lining up the morning before, organizers said.

“It’s dystopian, frankly,” said Christine Lindquist, who leads the state’s free clinic association, the Washington Health Care Access Alliance.

Today she’s working her usual volunteer shift checking people out after they’ve gotten an eye exam and glasses prescription.

“It’s incredibly rewarding and fun, and I see the same people every year,” she said.

But she said the high demand for free health care should give everyone pause.

“That’s a strong indictment of where we are as a community, as a state, as a nation, in terms of meeting folks’ basic health care needs,” she said.

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The Seattle/King County clinic started in 2014 — and this year it’s even more relevant as people feel the effects of federal cuts to health care funding. Last year, enhanced federal subsidies expired for Affordable Care Act (Apple Health) plans, and around 6% fewer people signed up for coverage on the Washington Health Benefit Exchange during the most recent open enrollment.

Certain procedures are beyond reach for many people, even if they have insurance.

Take for example Heba Alsamach, who winced in pain as she waited for a root canal in the dental services section of the Seattle Center.

“I did go to another dentist, but it was too expensive for me,” Alsamach said.

Sitting a few rows back, Gabriel Mayorga was also waiting to see a dentist. He cancelled his insurance after he got a letter at the end of last year saying the premiums would triple in cost, not to mention how he had to drive hours to find an in-network dentist.

During his visit to the clinic Thursday, he also got to see a dermatologist, nutritionist, and physician for his annual check-up.

“It's become my main source of medical care, because it’s the only thing I can afford,” Mayorga said.

He said it’s a joy to be able to get the care he needs without going broke.

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This year organizers expect to serve between 3,000 to 3,500 patients, and get help from 4,000 volunteers, said Seattle/King County Clinic project manager Olivia Sarriugarte.

When the clinic started, organizers were hopeful for improvements in the health care system following the Affordable Care Act.

“What we've seen 11 years later is that the need is only growing,” she said.

And the gaps are growing too, she said — immigrants afraid of their data being shared with the government, insured people with high co-pays and deductibles, other insured people who lack dental and vision coverage, and people who make too much money to qualify for Medicaid but not enough to pay out of pocket either.

Retiree Carmel Bolds came for care she can’t get from her usual clinic, such as acupuncture, new glasses, and foot care.

“I’m an active person and my health is my wealth, because I have none in my purse,” she said. “So, I take care of my health, and this is a great opportunity to do that.”

IF YOU GO: Free admission tickets are handed out at Fisher Pavilion at Seattle Center (200 Thomas Street) on a first-come, first-served basis, starting at 5:30 a.m. from now through Sunday, April 26. Patients do not need to be residents of Seattle or King County or show documentation of any kind.