If you do not have health insurance, you have a number of options:
Call your local chapter of the American Cancer Society (ACS)(listed in your phone book) or the national toll-free number, 1-800-ACS-2345. The ACS will be able to tell you about any low-cost or free mammography programs offering screening to eligible women unable to pay for it themselves.
Call your State Department of Health (number in your phone book). Every state now has a Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program funded by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This program offers screening to qualifying women unable to pay for it themselves.
Call the YWCA's ENCOREplus Program for access to low-cost or free mammograms. To find which YWCA facilities offer this service, and if you are eligible, call 1-800-95EPLUS or your local YWCA.
Call the National Cancer Institute at 1-800-4-CANCER for the names of FDA-certified, accredited mammography facilities in your area. If you explain your financial situation, some mammography facilities are willing to work out a lower fee or payment schedule that will make the test more affordable. Ask the facility if they are willing to discuss these financial options with you.
As October of each year is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, many mammography facilities offer special fees and extended hours during every October. Call in September to reserve an appointment for October.
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