Free Mammograms Pomona, California

Free Mammogram Services in Pomona, California: A Comprehensive Guide for Women

According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women in the United States is diagnosed with invasive breast cancer during her lifetime. Regular mammograms are an essential tool in early detection and treatment. For women in the city of Pomona, CA, finding affordable mammograms doesn't have to be a challenge. Here is a guide to help you find free and subsidized mammogram services around you.

Government Programs Offering Free Mammograms

The government has several initiatives helping women access free or affordable mammograms. These include programs both on a federal and state level.

The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP)

The NBCCEDP is a federal program that provides breast and cervical cancer screenings to low-income, uninsured, and underinsured women. In California, the NBCCEDP is known as the Every Woman Counts (EWC) program and is administered by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). This program provides free breast and cervical cancer screenings for California residents who meet the program eligibility criteria.

Medi-Cal

Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid program and it covers the cost of mammograms for eligible residents in California. Low-income, senior women, disabled women, and pregnant women in Pomona could qualify for these benefits.

NGOs and Non-Profit Organizations Offering Free Mammograms

Several non-governmental and non-profit organizations are dedicated to ensuring all women, especially those in underserved communities, have access to mammograms.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure

The LA County Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure is devoted to providing breast health education, screenings, and treatment services for uninsured and underinsured women and men across the county, including Pomona. They partner with local providers to offer mammograms at free or reduced costs to women who meet the eligibility criteria.

The YWCA

The YWCA's ENCOREplus program provides free mammogram and clinical breast examinations for uninsured or underinsured women in the greater Los Angeles area, including Pomona. The program also provides women with support services throughout the mammogram process, from bookings to follow-ups.

Steps Women Should Take to Get Screened

To get screened for breast cancer, follow these steps:

1. Understand eligibility: Check if you meet the eligibility criteria for these free mammogram services. You can usually find this information on the program websites or by calling their contact numbers.
2. Schedule an appointment: After identifying a program you're eligible for, call to schedule a mammogram appointment.
3. Prepare for the appointment: On the day of your appointment, wear a two-piece outfit for convenience. Avoid deodorants, perfumes, or creams on your breasts and underarms as these could affect the mammogram results.
4. Follow-ups: If any abnormality is found during screening, follow-up with the recommended procedures, which could be an ultrasound or biopsy.

City-Specific Breast Cancer Data in Pomona

As per the California Cancer Registry, the breast cancer incidence rate in Los Angeles County from 2014-2018 was about 129.4 per 100,000 women, similar to the rate in California. Although specific data for Pomona is not isolated in most reports, the city is a significant part of LA County and likely reflects similar trends. The local government, healthcare organizations, and NGOs are consistently working together to address early detection and treatment in Pomona.