Free Mammograms dohsarasotainfo@, Florida

Guide for Free Mammograms in Florida

Breast cancer is the most common cancer amongst women in the United States, including Florida. Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have to detect breast cancer early. But how can women with low income, uninsured or aged 50-75 access free or affordable mammograms? This guide discusses how Florida offers solutions and assistance through local government and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), which might help you or a loved one.

1. Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (FBCCEDP)

The Florida Department of Health’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program provides access to the breast and cervical cancer screenings doctors recommend. FBCCEDP offers no-cost breast and cervical cancer screening services to low-income and uninsured or underinsured women. Qualifying criteria include an annual family income of 200% or less of the Federal Poverty Level and being between 50-64 years of age.

2. Susan G. Komen

The Susan G. Komen foundation offers free or low-cost mammograms and diagnostic breast cancer screening services. Their Florida Affiliates program offers grants that provide financial aid for diagnosis, treatment, and medical assistance to underprivileged women. This is achieved by shifting healthcare resources into local communities and aiming at catching breast cancer early through free or cost-effective tests.

3. Planned Parenthood

Planned Parenthood offers free or affordable mammograms and other preventative health services to women regardless of their healthcare insurance status. They have around 23 health centers across Florida where you can get breast examinations.

4. American Breast Cancer Foundation (ABCF)

The American Breast Cancer Foundation’s Key to Life Breast Cancer Screening Assistance Program offers financial assistance to uninsured and under-insured women and men of all ages for breast cancer testing. ABCF partners with healthcare providers throughout Florida to provide access to mammogram screenings and diagnostic services, including ultrasounds, biopsies, and MRI's.

5. Avon Foundation

The Avon Foundation’s Breast Health Outreach Program offers free screenings and mammography to the low-income women who cannot afford mammograms. The programs fund education, screening, and diagnosis and attempt to link those diagnosed with cancer to care and support.

Steps in Finding Help

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility – Review the eligibility requirements of the programs mentioned above. Remember, each program might have a different requirement depending on the funds and availability of service. Step 2: Find Your Local Programs – Use each organization's website to locate your nearest branch or partner provider. Step 3: Contact for Information – Once you locate a nearby program, contact the branch directly for information on how to apply for a free mammogram and what documents you need, if any. Step 4: Set an Appointment – After ensuring you qualify for the program and have your documents ready, the last step is to set up an appointment for your mammogram. Remember that breast cancer is curable if detected early. Regardless of income level or insured status, every woman deserves access to mammograms and the best possible breast health care. Florida offers several resources to make sure you have access to the care you need. Don't wait, get screened today!