A health screening clinic held in the parking garage under O'Bryant Square in downtown Portland on April 18 was the culmination of OHSU's student-organized and run activities marking Cover the Uninsured Week – a national project of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
"This clinic provides important health information to the patients, and attempts to identify a regular source of care for those with significant health problems. It is also a very valuable learning experience for our students," said Scott Fields, MD, Professor and Vice Chair, Department of Family Medicine, one of a number of School of Medicine faculty members overseeing and supporting the student event. "The students gain a better understanding of the health care needs of the homeless and the uninsured, and how their needs are not being addressed by the current health care system." 
One hundred and seventy-five men, women and children took advantage of the free health screenings for height, weight, blood pressure, vision and hearing, glucose levels and foot care. In addition, participants were able to talk with a physician, obtain referrals, receive dental check-ups and have a free haircut. Professional interpreters and students with advanced language skills stood by to provide translation services in 11 languages.