Partners in Care Providing Free Mammograms To Uninsured this October

Statistics demonstrate that deaths from breast cancer could be avoided if cancer screening rates increased among women at risk. Tragically, deaths from this disease occur disproportionately among women who are uninsured or underinsured. To help change this rate, this October 4th Windsong Radiology Group in Williamsville, Neighborhood Health Center, Cancer Services Program of Erie County and the MASH Network’s We Care Transportation are combining resources to offer free mammograms to women ages 40 to 64 who are uninsured. Thanks to the providers at Neighborhood Health Center and nurse practitioner, Lucy Coady, free clinical breast exams will also be provided. Women who qualify for this program will have the opportunity to receive their mammogram findings from the radiologists that same day. Service does not end with the screening. The Cancer Services Program will cover the cost of additional testing and provide treatment options, at no cost, if needed.

These partners are coming together again this year to make a difference in the lives of the many uninsured women who have not had their recommended screening mammogram. Data shows that this life saving screening test is especially underused by women who have no regular source of healthcare and those women who have immigrated to the United States within the past 10 years.

To accommodate those who may need transportation, this year the MASH Network’s We Care Transportation will be providing scheduled transportation from the Neighborhood Health Center on Lawn Avenue to the Windsong Williamsville location at 55 Spindrift Drive.

“Community outreach is critical for the success of this event, and we are delighted to have the support of the Neighborhood Health Center and Windsong Radiology Group,” said Lisa Napier, Outreach Manager of Erie County’s Cancer Services Program. Early detection of breast cancer through a mammogram is crucial to increasing the effectiveness of treatment and/or a cure. Surprisingly even with the Affordable Care Act there are many women who still lack health insurance. These partners are assuring that these women will not be denied access to this life saving screening.

Participants must meet eligibility requirements and appointments are necessary. For more information and to schedule an appointment, contact Cancer Services Program of Erie County at (716) 858-7376.