Guide to Free Mammograms for Virginia's Uninsured/Underinsured Women

The thought of breast cancer is a scary one for women, particularly those who do not have access to regular mammograms due to insurance or financial reasons. Breast health screenings should not be put off due to cost and there are several programs in Virginia designed to help women who cannot afford mammograms or other well-women check-ups get the care they need.

Uninsured and underinsured Virginia women can obtain free mammograms, breast and pelvic exams, including a Pap, as part of Virginia's Every Woman's Life Program through Virginia's Department of Health. Under the program, women who meet the criteria can seek out these vital preventative services without cost. In addition, if cancer is found, the newly diagnosed may qualify to have the cost of treatment covered under Medicaid.

Who qualifies for a free mammogram and wellness exams under this program?

According to the Virginia Department of Health's website, free mammograms and wellness exams such as breast and pelvic exams are free you as long as you meet all of the following criteria:

1. You must be a Virginia resident.

2. You must be between the ages of 40 and 64.

3. You must either have no insurance, be unable to pay your insurance's deductible, or have insurance that does not cover the screenings.

4. You must meet income guidelines.

What are the income guidelines to obtain a free mammogram and female health screenings in Virginia?

For some women, the income guidelines may be the factor that disqualifies them from obtaining a free mammogram. For a single woman, her income must not have exceeded $21,660 in 2009. For a family of four, 2009 income must not exceed $41,400.

What can you do if you do not qualify for services based on the guidelines above?

Other resources may be available to you. Call the Virginia Department of Health's Every Woman's Life toll free number 1-866-395-4968 and an operator will share information with you regarding resources to help you obtain the screenings you need.

Other resources to obtain a free/low cost mammogram in Virginia

For those uninsured women in need in Northern Virginia, Inova may be a resource to explore. For at least the past two years, they have offered free mammograms in October for 100 women. A link to 2009's event is listed below. October is breast cancer awareness month and free or lower cost screenings may be available in your area more so than at other times of the year. Call your local cancer society, hospital or free clinics to inquire if there are any free mammograms being provided near you.

The American Breast Cancer Foundation's Key to Life Breast Cancer Screening program offers assistance with paying for breast cancer screenings for uninsured/underinsured men and women over the age of 40. To be considered for this program, you must call 877-539-2543 for a confidential interview to see if you qualify.

Though many are loathe to discuss finances with their physician, being honest with them when they hand you the written orders for a mammogram can help you with locating a free or reduced cost mammogram program that can get you the screenings you need to stay healthy. If cost or coverage is an issue, be sure communicate that to your health care provider so that you can be referred to an agency that may be able to help.

Sources:
American Breast Cancer Foundation
http://www.vahealth.org/breastcancer/service.htm
http://newsroom.inova.org/article_display.cfm?article_id=5314