On October 20, the International Buddha’s Light Association of Los Angeles, along with Hsi Lai Temple and USC Arcadia Hospital (formerly known as the Mei Yi Mei Hospital), organized the 2024 “Peace and Happiness” free medical clinic. Approximately 600 individuals attended the event, with some arriving as early as 4 AM to line up for services.
The event, which has been running for 22 years, was smoothly coordinated by volunteers who directed attendees through the various medical services offered. Among the most popular options were the blood tests, which included 24 biochemical screenings for liver and kidney function, cholesterol levels, and diabetes.
In addition to blood testing, the clinic provided a variety of services such as vaccinations, blood pressure checks, dementia and mental health screenings, body fat assessments, osteoporosis screenings, breast cancer examinations, and hands-on CPR training. This year, health consultations expanded to include specialties in cardiology, hepatology, gastroenterology, internal medicine, dermatology, orthopedics, and oncology, with nutritionists and pharmacists on-site to answer questions.
The clinic operated from 8 AM to 11:30 AM, providing free medical checks without any requirement for identifying information or income verification. Organizers noted that blood test results would be mailed to patients within the next two to three weeks. If individuals had not received their reports or had questions, they were encouraged to call the number provided on their visit forms.
A Chinese elder couple from Alhambra arrived around 7 AM and found themselves among the first in a line of fifty to sixty people. They shared that although the wait was lengthy, it was well worth it and much more convenient compared to scheduling regular doctor appointments.
Mr. Wang from Diamond Bar, who was also waiting in line, praised the organizing team for their dedication in hosting this event annually, highlighting its significant benefit for low-income groups and new immigrants. Having immigrated to the U.S. a decade ago, he reflected on his own experiences relying on these free clinics during his initial years without health insurance.
Over 80 healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and hospital staff, participated in the clinic on that day. Wu Shuilun, the president of the International Buddha’s Light Association in Los Angeles, expressed gratitude to the healthcare workers and the nearly 200 volunteers for their hard work. Master Ruisong, the community education director from Hsi Lai Temple, emphasized the goal of the event to spread compassion and goodwill through ongoing service, working together to build a peaceful community.
