Shortly after starting its food distribution project in 1996, Tzu Chi USA National Headquarters began providing free quarterly clinics for agricultural workers and low-income families in San Bernardino County, one of the five poorest counties in the United States. After a temporary suspension due to the pandemic, the clinics resumed in 2022, offering Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine services as well as dental and eye care not usually covered by American health insurance.

On April 16, 2023, Tzu Chi Oakland Service Center held a large joint community free clinic, inviting eight doctors and three nurses, including Chinese medicine doctors, dentists, and chiropractic specialists to provide free consultation and treatment to residents in need.

On May 21, 2023, Tzu Chi USA’s Northeast Region held its first-ever Caring for Health Day event at PS 94 Elementary School in Brooklyn, New York. Nearly 20 practitioners offered various medical services such as Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments, acupuncture, rehab and physical therapy, dental care, and other services free of charge, attracting nearly 200 local residents in need of support.

On March 26, 2023, Tzu Chi USA’s Orange County volunteers joined forces with the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Ana to host a free clinic to provide medical services for locals in need.

On February 26, 2023, Tzu Chi New York hosted a vision mobile service at the NYPD Community Center at 127 Penn in Brooklyn, New York. Fifteen patients in total, regardless of insurance status, received prescription glasses in same-day service — 100% free. The opportunity was made possible thanks to a link with the NYPD Community Affairs Bureau.

San Bernardino, California, is one of the poorest areas in the state. So in December 2022, Tzu Chi USA volunteers held a charity clinic for low-income residents to wish them a healthy and happy New Year.