Military physicians set up in Rio Bravo and Zapata today providing free medical exams for people of all ages and even immunizations for kids as part of the fourth annual operation lone star.
But there are a few changes this year.
And organizers hope the changes won't discourage the public from taking advantage of the program.
Our Annette Garcia was out in Rio Bravo and has the story.
It's not the most pleasant part heading back to school for kids but parents here agree, getting the little ones immunized at operation lone star is a blessing.
“It looked very organized and looks like its being done very quickly when you have children you cant be waiting too long. I think its worth the trip to make it out here.”
Elvira Garza says even with Medicaid, healthcare can get expensive for her family.
She made the trip from Bruni, Texas to Rio Bravo to take advantage of Operation Lone Star, which offers free medical screenings for everyone and immunizations for the kids.
The program run by military physicians who set up shop and used the opportunity to carry out a full emergency response exercise.
“We have out doctors and nurses and medics training on providing medical services and our communications folks get practice communicating over long distances we try to do a little of everything.”
It's been four years since the beginning of the program but this year Operation Lone Star didn't return to Laredo.
So organizers are prepared to welcome more people at the nearest site.
“Last year about 250 people came here to Rio Bravo for operation Lone Star but this year the crew here is prepared to take up to 150 people each day.”
The crowd is small on the first day but organizers have hope more people will begin to trickle in.
“We’re hoping the flow will pick up we hope you all get the news out we're ready to go to work.”
Garza says she's glad she did.
“It’s something that needed in Laredo and Bruni. The tri-city. I would tell them go ahead and come.”
The program runs all week at Juarez Lincoln elementary school in Rio Bravo and at Zapata Middle School.
They're open Monday through Thursday from 8 to 4 and Friday from 8 to 2.
If you'd like more information please call the City of Laredo Health Department at 795-4922.