Free Mammograms Billings, Montana

Your Guide to Free Mammograms in Billings, Montana

Breast cancer is a serious health problem that affects millions of women worldwide. In Montana alone, the American Cancer Society predicted that more than 1,000 women would be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020. Timely detection through mammograms is a critical aspect of maintaining breast health. This article provides information on where women in Billings, Montana, can access free mammograms.

What is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast used to screen for breast cancer. Women are usually advised to start getting mammograms from age 40 onwards, although this may vary based on individual risk factors like family history or genetic predisposition. Mammograms can detect tumors and calcifications that might be too small to feel in a self-exam or clinical breast exam.

Why is it Important to Get Screened?

Annual screenings with mammograms have helped reduce breast cancer mortality by almost 40% since 1990. Timely detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment and saves lives. Lack of insurance or financial resources should not be a barrier to getting screened. Fortunately, there are several options for free mammograms in Billings, Montana.

Government Resources for Free Mammograms

The Montana Breast and Cervical Health Program (MBCHP) is a comprehensive cancer program funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The MBCHP provides free or low-cost mammograms and Pap tests to eligible women. To qualify, women must be 50-64 years old, have a low income, and have no health insurance or insurance that doesn’t cover these tests.

Non-profit Organizations and Non-governmental Options

St. Vincent Healthcare provides free mammograms to uninsured or underinsured women in Montana through its Eva Project. The program was named after Eva Stubbs, a beloved Billings woman who succumbed to breast cancer in 2016. Her greatest wish was for no woman to forego a mammogram because of cost. Another organization, the Cancer Screening Program at RiverStone Health, provides free breast and cervical cancer screenings for women aged 30-64 who meet income and insurance guidelines. Funded by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services and the CDC, this program aims to reduce cancer incidences by detecting them early in those who might not otherwise afford regular screenings.

Steps to Get a Free Mammogram in Billings, Montana

If you qualify under the income guidelines and criteria put forth by the MBCHP and St. Vincent’s Eva Project, follow these steps:

1. Contact the programs directly: For MBCHP, call their office at 1-888-803-9343 or visit their official website to learn more about their services and eligibility criteria. For the Eva Project, call St. Vincent Healthcare at (406) 237-4373.
2. Application: After determining eligibility, fill out the required forms provided by the respective organizations. This typically includes personal information, income details, and insurance status.
3. Schedule an appointment: Once your application is approved, the respective organization will help schedule a mammogram appointment for you.

Conclusion

In recognition of the importance of early detection in breast cancer survival rates, there are free resources available in Billings, Montana, to ensure all women can access these potentially life-saving services. By taking advantage of these resources, you can contribute to the statistics of survivorship and healthy, cancer-free lives.