Under the Affordable Care Act, most Americans will be required to have health insurance. For those who can't afford the coverage on their own, government programs and health insurance markets may be an option.

Unfortunately, the requirement doesn't take effect until 2014 and many people need affordable access to healthcare now. A series of free health clinics from the group Communities Are Responding Everyday will be stopping in New Orleans to help provide care to those who need it.

Without free services, some people may not know where else to turn for care if they don't have health insurance.

"This free clinic is not just for the sick but also for anyone who is uninsured and has not seen a doctor recently," said National Association of Free Clinics executive director Nicole Lamoureux. "All participants will receive preventive primary medical care and be connected to the area's safety-net providers such as free clinics."

Visiting the doctor on the regular basis is important. Even if a person isn't feeling ill, a physician can provide preventative screenings that may ultimately save a person on healthcare costs.