Thousands receive free health care at LA Sports Arena

EXPOSITION PARK, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- In a line that snaked back and forth, thousands of under-insured Angelinos arrived early at Exposition Park for free health care.

Among them was Rose Johnson Brown. Like many of the 4,000 people granted access, she came for dental work.

After making some jokes, she talked about the real need to get this care that she otherwise could not afford.

"Dental care is just through the roof high, it's just too high," she said.

Dentist Dean Ramus said Brown has been missing teeth for a long time.

"I'm sure it's hard for her to chew," he said.

Brown is volunteering his time and says the work is rewarding, but he admits only so much can be done with so many patients to see.

"This is a difficult situation to do the work that we need to do in a limited amount of time," Brown said.

During her visit, Brown got molds made for partial dentures. She says without her teeth, she can't even sing or pronounce words correctly.

This is the fourth year a free health clinic has been held inside the L.A. Sports Arena, organized by Care Harbor, an L.A.-based nonprofit.

Dental care is just one aspect. Patients can get medical and vision care, with free eye glasses available on the spot.

The clinic also connects patients with follow-up care.

As for Brown, she says the impact to her life will be tremendous.

"We go through shame, embarrassment, covering our mouths, and you know, having your pretty ivories, it makes a difference," she said.

The clinic runs through Sunday, but if you don't already have a wristband, you'll have to wait until next year.